Agem Miranda celebrates after JRU beat Letran in overtime in the opening game of the NCAA Season 99 men’s basketball tournament at Mall of Asia Arena.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Even before the new NCAA season started, Jose Rizal University coach Louie Gonzales was already raving about Agem Miranda’s improvement.
On Sunday, Miranda showed why after the Heavy Bombers upset defending champion Letran in the opener of NCAA Season 99 men’s basketball tournament at Mall of Asia Arena.
“His development has been really good, especially for this coming season. Not just his physical build, but he’s also more mature. He contributes more now whether he’s on the bench or on the court,” said Gonzales of Miranda recently.
Miranda finished with a team-high 17 points on top of three rebounds and three assists against the Knights. The veteran forward also sank the game-sealing free throws.
“I just knew that I needed to step up to lead our team,” said Miranda after the Bombers’ 85-79 overtime win.
Agem Miranda celebrates with his teammates in JRU’s win over Letran.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
His heroics earned more praise from Gonzales.
“Their chemistry and trust in each other showed up and the maturity was there, especially for this guy beside me (Miranda) that they didn’t want to repeat what happened last season,” said Gonzales.
Even Letran coach Rensy Bajar had to give Miranda his due after giving the Knights fits in the paint.
“Actually, Agem was who we were preparing for but he still played well. He’s a good player, at the same time, he has a huge part in JRU. As a veteran and leader, he gave it his all for that team,” said Bajar.
Miranda and JRU look to make it two in a row to start off the season when they face last year’s College of St. Benilde on Friday at San Juan Arena.