Pablo happy to share leadership role with Gumabao in Pocari

Pocari Sweat during its game against National University in the Shakey’s V-League Season 13 Open Conference. Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net FILE PHOTO

It was Myla Pablo’s time to shine on Saturday and the former National University standout made the most of it.

Pablo was mere pedestrian in Pocari Sweat’s three-set loss against Bali Pure in Game 1 of their best-of-three semifinal series, finishing with only eight points.

On Saturday, though, Pablo had a game-high 25 points to lead the Lady Warriors.

Not only did Pablo take charge in the offensive end, she was also a vocal presence during Pocari Sweat’s five-set win over the Water Defenders.

“Kinausap ako ni coach [Rommel Abella] na kung wala si ate Michele [Gumabao] sa court ako muna magdala,” said Pablo. “Nag promise ako na kung wala si ate Michele ako muna and sinasabihan ko lagi teammates ko na ‘kaya natin yan.’”

Pablo was dealing with overfatigue a mere day before their game 1 loss. She was confined to a hospital but was released shortly after.

Taking the role from Gumabao, a proven winner both in the collegiate and the professional ranks, is not a walk in the park but Pablo was able to stride with pride.

She did not show any semblance of pressure and she capped off her performance with a service ace that ended the match and forced a Game 3.

“Hindi naman ako na pressure kasi may tiwala naman sakin si coach at pinanindigan ko ang sinabi niya,” said Pablo. “At siyempre humingi ako ng tulong kay God and ayun kahit papaano nadala ko yung team.”