MANILA, Philippines — Rookie Joaquin Tovera made an electrifying UAAP debut as he led the De La Salle Green Archers in an 89-87 escape of the National University Bulldogs in the Season 89 men's basketball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum Sunday.
The Gilas Pilipinas Youth standout fired 22 points on 8-of-14 shooting laced with three steals as La Salle began its title defense with a win.
"At first, I was nervous, but when I stepped on the court, I just wanted to show what I had. It was a great experience," said Tovera, who came from Chino Hills High School in the United States.
"I'm just pretty much attacking with confidence. I saw little openings and I just attacked the gaps, made some layups. Today was just all confidence but I have to be consistent."
Archers head coach Topex Robinson said that having another potent guard in Tovera is a luxury, as the 5-foot-10 guard could help take some of the load off the marked Jacob Cortez.
Cortez struggled against NU with just nine points on 3-of-10 shooting but had five assists.
Obviously, him (Tovera) scoring that much and really contributing a lot on both ends really kind of helped us a lot.
"We know that this year, all the other teams will never forget Jacob. So, we know that he's going to be one of the targets," said Robinson.
"So, it's nice to have a backup or somebody that could also provide support for the team. But again, having a young guy together with our veterans is really going to be a big help for us moving forward."
