Mike Nzeusseu (left) and Adrian Alban. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
It looks like Topex Robinson has found his inside-outside duo for Lyceum of the Philippines University.
In the Pirates’ second straight win in the NCAA Season 92 Men’s Basketball Tournament, it was Adrian Alban and Mike Nzeusseu who took the challenge.
Alban had a game-high 21 points to lead the Pirates over College of St. Benilde 75-58 Thursday at San Juan Arena while Nzeusseu ruled the boards with a 15-point, 22-rebound line.
“He’s just taking advantage of the opportunity,” said Robinson of Alban. “I always tell him if he’s not going to take it somebody else will, since he has it now he has to protect it, and by protect it he’s not going to have a rest day, and don’t feel good about himself.”
Nzeusseu’s work in the glass, which included eight offensive boards, was at a workhorse rate but Robinson joked the 6’6” big man has to do more.
“He was short, three rebounds short, I talked to him prior to the game, I want 25 rebounds. I’m disappointed with Mike,” joked Robinson. “He’s a learner, he always asks questions, he doesn’t feel good about himself, and he’s now rewarded.”
Nzeusseu said he’s thriving under the pressure Robinson has placed upon them.
“Basketball is a learning process, I’m going to take advantage of that, especially coach Topex has coached in the PBA so he has a different vision.”
Alban, for his part, has another source of motivation apart from Robinson.
Rain or Shine guard Paul Lee has become a “big brother figure” for Alban and in the Pirates’ game against Heavy Bombers the former Gilas guard was in attendance.
“Tinext ko si Kuya Paul na manood siya and para di masayang punta niya dito ginandahan ko laro ko,” said Alban. “Parehas kasi kami taga Tondo, and yun isa din siya sa mga nag mo motivate sa akin.”