Wello Lingolingo, right, celebrates after hitting the game-winner at the buzzer to push UE past Adamson in UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Wello Lingolingo was in the right place and at the right time to save the day for University of the East in the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball tournament on Sunday.
Struggling in the first three quarters, Lingolingo remained patient and was rewarded in the end after sinking a double clutch jumper at the buzzer to lift UE past Adamson, 63-62.
“Coach LA has been teaching me about having a winning mentality. He told me earlier not to quit, refuse to lose and be in the right place at the right time,” Lingolingo told reporters in Filipino, referring to Red Warriors assistant coach and former La Salle guard LA Revilla.
READ: UAAP: Family fueling Lingolingo’s inspired play for resurgent UE
OH. MY. GOODNESS! Good night, UE! This is for you! 💣
WATCH: UE’s Wello Lingolingo sinks the game-winning shot over Adamson in front of a rowdy Red Warrior crowd! #UAAPSeason87 @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/HvUETw6D5G
— Rommel Fuertes Jr. (@MeloFuertesINQ) October 6, 2024
“I saw the clock and didn’t hesitate to take the shot because there’s not much I can do in that situation. Luckily, I made it. Thanks to God.”
The third-year guard followed his coach’s advice when he grabbed the offensive rebound after a missed shot by Nico Mulingtapang before burying the game-winner that sent his team and supporters into a wild celebration.
“My mentality was it’s not over until it’s over. The game doesn’t end until there’s no more time left. So when I got the ball I knew I don’t have much time left and I took that little opportunity I had to get that shot up,” said Lingolingo, who scored eight of his 10 points in the final frame.
READ: UAAP: Running on Precious fuel, UE looks to beef up streak
Wello Lingolingo on his game winner. #UAAPSeason87 @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/ztQZcIno0U
— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) October 6, 2024
“Whatever happens, we want to keep that winning mentality. We just don’t want to lose and that’s what that winning mentality means,” he added.
Lingolingo’s heroics stretched the second-running Red Warriors’ winning streak to five games–their longest since 2014–after opening the season at 0-2.
“I’m happy and I feel thankful, especially to coach because he trusts me and gives me confidence to do what I’m capable of doing,” said Lingolingo.