UST import Afoakwah a bright spot in loss to NU

In this file photo, UST’s William Afoakwah attempts a one-hander as La Salle’s Ben Mbala looks on. Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

University 0f Santo Tomas may have succumbed to National University on Sunday, but for coach Boy Sablan, he’s slowly seeing improvements from his team, especially from his big man William Afoakwah.

“William is an aggressive player. Although hindi nakaka-finish, yung rebounding nya hindi naman masama para sa isang rookie,” he said.

Afoakwah had his best game to date in the Growling Tigers’ 75-68 loss to the Bulldogs as he finished with a career-best 15 rebounds to go with his seven points and two blocks.

“Tandaan nyo, rookie yan. Hindi yan tulad ni Karim (Abdul) na beterano na at ilang years na naglalaro. Hindi yan nakapaglaro ng maganda ng summer o before ako nakarating. Ngayon lang sya nakaka-adjust sa laro nya kaya masaya ako sa 15 rebounds nya. Hindi na masama yun,” Sablan said.

The first-year coach also noted the intangibles the Ghanaian brings to the table, especially on the defensive end.

“Tumutulong din sya sa depensa kasi nakaka-intimidate din. Kahit di nakakasupalpal ng todo-todo, pag tumalon sa taas, di rin sila makashoot. Okay na ako dun,” he said.

Afoakwah understands the huge shoes he has to fill for UST and he indicates he’s ready to take time to make his name for the Growling Tigers.

“It’s a learning process, but I’ll be fine. We’re improving. Final Four, we’ll be there, for sure,” he vowed. “I just want to do my best for the University, have my pride. It’s a blessing to be a part of the team, but for sure, there’s a trusting process. We’ll be fine too.”

The 21-year-old center is also taking everything in stride and picking up valuable lessons in every battle he goes in.

“When they match up against me, I try to use my quickness and when I’m on the court, I stay focused. I believe I work hard more than them,” he said.

Sablan is taking this as a positive sign as he looks forward to develop the 6-foot-6 big man in the games to come.

“Hopefully, mas mabigyan pa ng magandang playing time si William in the future,” he said.