San Beda’s Yukien Andrada against the Letran Knights. –NCAA Photo
MANILA, Philippines–San Beda’s Yukien Andrada kept his composure when it mattered the most to give the Red Lions a “sweet” victory over rival Letran in the NCAA Season 99 men’s basketball.
Andrada showed his nerves of steel in the clutch, sinking important free throws in the payoff period en route to the 68-63 win.
“Those are normal because in training, we do lots of free throws and we really prepared for those kinds of moments,” said the lanky forward.
“When we do our free throws in practice, we even have distractions so it’s all a preparation for those kinds of moments.”
Andrada only missed one of his four shots from the charity stripe, finishing with a near double-double of 14 points and nine rebounds.
Reyson for the tie, no good. Letran fouls Yukien Andrada with 11.9 to go. #NCAASeason99 | @MeloFuertesINQ pic.twitter.com/wC9PTF6VMZ
— INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) October 6, 2023
Other than his numbers, the third-year cager from Mendiola was also given the difficult task of matching up with the Knights’ bruiser, Pao Javillonar.
Despite the Letran center’s antics, Andrada kept his cool and willed the Red Lions to the finish line.
“Especially Pao, even in the preseason, he was already very physical against us and I just try to handle it and focus on the game.”
“If I let it come to my head, my game will be broken completely so as much as possible, I try to compose myself, relax and focus on my game.”
Up next for Andrada and the Red Lions, who hold a 3-1 record, are the undefeated Lyceum Pirates on Sunday.