FORMER San Beda Red Cubs’ standout Rev Diputado is fast emerging as one of the go-to guys of the National University Bulldogs.
Bulldogs’ coach Eric Altamirano saw how important the 5’9” point guard’s role is for the team following their 70-60 triumph over the Ateneo Blue Eagles Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum.
When the Blue Eagles fought their way back to within five, 56-61 in the last four minutes, Diputado joined hands with Alfred Aroga, Reggie Boy Morido, and J-Jay Alejandro for a 9-1 blast.
This allowed the Bulldogs to seal their second straight win and join La Salle in the lead of the 79th University Athletic Association of the Philippines men’s basketball tournament.
“Rev really stepped up big. Aside from his tenacious defense, he carried the team on offense. He had good looks and broke the tough defense of Ateneo,” said Altamirano.
Diputado finished with 16 points and helped Aroga control the board with seven rebounds, along with 3 assists and 3 steals.
“Nagpasalamat ako sa tiwala na binigay ni coach sa akin. Ginawa ko role ko sa team lalo na sa defense,” said Diputado.
Another teammate who stepped up was La Salle transferee Matt Salem, who delivered 12 points and eight rebounds.
The 6’3” power forward hit five straight points to lead a 19-5 burst that propelled NU to a 51-37 edge in the last 2:51.
With the Green Archers as their next assignment on Sept. 18, Altamirano feels that they’re in for a big fight.
“We are happy that we’re 2-0. But we can’t be contented. It’s still a long season. We have to improve as a team,” added Altamirano.