Roi Sumang. FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — He could easily be dubbed as the best point guard in the UAAP, but Roi Sumang himself doesn’t want to accept that tag.
“Best point guard? Parang hindi naman. Maraming iba dyan na mas magaling pa sakin,” University of the East’s star guard downplays the compliment.
But after a series of ankle-breakers, clutch jumpers, nifty lay-ups and timely dishes, it’s hard not to see Sumang as one of the league’s elite.
Sumang was named the Filoil Flying V Hanes Premier Cup MVP, after giving spark to the Red Warriors en route to the pre-season title, dethroning National University on Wednesday, 81-68.
“Siyempre, masaya kami. Pero sana magtuloy-tuloy kami,” said Sumang.
Reminded of the Red Warriors’ rise from 7th place in season 75 to a legit contender this season with a pre-season title to their name, Sumang said, “Sinabi ko naman dati. Sawang sawa na ako matalo.”
And it wasn’t just a statement, Sumang made it a personal goal.
The sly guard was again effortless in producing highlight reels while carrying his team in clutch — including a crisp crossover move to shake off Robin Roño before draining a jumper to stretch their lead 72-61.
He finished with 18 points, nine rebounds and six dimes on Wednesday — a stat line usual for Sumang.
While he doesn’t believe he’s the best point guard when UAAP season 76 opens in 17 days, Sumang’s feisty game speaks otherwise.