This time, Montalbo plays hero for La Salle vs Ateneo

Kib Montalbo. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Last time La Salle and Ateneo met, Kib Montalbo lost the ball on the inbounds play which led to the Blue Eagles taking a 76-75 victory in the first round.

On Sunday, Montalbo was the hero after drilling the go-ahead floater with 40.3 seconds left in the Green Archers’ 79-76 win abd deal the Blue Eagles their first defeat of UAAP Season 80.

The Bacolod native said atoning for his costly turnover in the first duel was the least of his concerns.

“I wasn’t thinking of making up for that (mistake). I just want to play my game and be aggressive,” he said after winging up with six points, three rebounds, and three assists.

“Coach told me to calm down. Eventually, I did,” he said. “Coach called for a play, didn’t see anyone open because they were denying, and I saw the lane and took what the defense gave me.”

It also helps that Ayo continues to trust Montalbo and that faith allows the fourth-year guard to play his usual game.

“To have a coach like that really means a lot for the confidence level of one player. If you’re open, you can take the shot. If you’re free take it. Whoever deserves to be on the court will play. Even if I’m on the bench or on the court, I’ll do my best,” he said.

La Salle heads to the Final Four with a twice-to-beat advantage against No. 4 Adamson and Montalbo said the team is right where it wants to be.

“We’re really confident. Hopefully, we’ll peak on time. It ain’t over until it’s over and we won’t stop until we get that crown,” he said.