Prized recruit Akomo brings hope to UST after forgettable season

UST’s prized recruit from Cebu.

Disastrous as this season may have been for University of Santo Tomas, the Tigers have something to looking forward to with the entry of Steve Akomo for UAAP Season 80.

The 21-year-old Cameroonian will be making his debut for the Growling Tigers next year as he seeks to renew his rivalry with an old foe in Ben Mbala.

“He really developed his basketball,” said Akomo, a transferee from the University of Visayas.

The big man shared tales of their numerous wars down South in Cebu, with him playing for the Green Lancers and Mbala still suiting up for Southwestern University in Cesafi.

“The last time we played in Cebu was in 2012. We fought in the Finals, so hopefully, we just enjoy next year’s games. We’ll just prepare for that,” he said.

The 6-foot-8 big man is also confident that the Tigers will bounce back from an atrocious showing this season, saying that their 3-10 record will definitely be a rallying point for next season’s campaign.

“We better prepare for next year and do better than this year. That is the first goal that’s in my mind. I don’t know what will happen and we don’t really know what is going to be the result for us next year, but I will do my best,” he said.

Akomo knows that expectations are high with his arrival in the Tigers’ lair and he promises to give 100-percent effort whenever he takes the court.

“Every fan of UST is expecting big things from me. Hopefully, I will give my best. I’m confident, I will just play hard, and continue to practice every day,” he said.

Alongside Akomo, leading the Growling Tigers next year will be spitfire guards Marvin Lee and Renzo Subido.