Orizu’s big game gives FEU huge lift in UAAP Finals opener

FEU’s Prince Orizu (17) shoots over the outstretched arms of UST’s Kevin Ferrer during Game 1 of the UAAP Season 78 men’s basketball Finals Wednesday at Mall of Asia Arena. Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Prince Orizu came up with his best game at the most opportune time for Far Eastern University. 

Orizu, who is only in his first playing year for the Tamaraws, nearly came away with a double-double effort of 10 points and nine rebounds in 18 minutes.

Apart from his offensive contributions, the Fil-Nigerian center also made an impact on the defensive end in holding his own against University of Santo Tomas’ Cameroonian import Karim Abdul.

Abdul still came through with 19 points and nine rebounds but had to bleed for his points every time Orizu was on him.

And with Orizu making life tough, Abdul had exhausted all his efforts and seemed to have lost steam when it mattered most.

Orizu, who also had three emphatic dunks, deflected the praise to his teammates and coaching staff after his performance helped the Tamaraws grab a 1-0 headstart in the finals following a 75-64 win.

“My teammates were telling me to keep working. So I’m just going to keep doing my best to help the team the best way I can.”