Michael Phillips of La Salle. UAAP pictures
MANILA, Philippines – Atenio coach Tab Baldwin praised the strength and athleticism of the Rocky Michael Phillips in their rival match at the UAAP Season 84 Men’s Basketball Tournament.
Phillips rose to the occasion with three blocks including his double-double 13 points and 10 rebounds for La Salle before his team absorbed their first defeat at the Mall of Asia Arena last Saturday against rival Atenio, 74-57.
Baldwin believes the 6-foot-8 center has the potential to be Dennis Rodman-type rebounder.
“He has a great work ethic, his strength level is very high. He is very athletic, cut, long arm and he chases the ball every time,” said coach Atenio.
“When you have these traits, if he really learns where the rebound is going, he can be a Rodman-esque rebounder with the way he follows the ball and his physical features. Many of his achievements. “
The 19-year-old picked up La Salle in the first half to keep Atenio within striking distance. Thanks to Ange Kaume, the Blue Eagles were able to neutralize Phillips and exploded in the second half to stay unbeaten in four games.
Angelo Cowme vs. Michael Phillips. UAAP pictures
“The man is sitting here [Ange]The second half of the third quarter and the fourth quarter really got it out and he did a great job on Michael. He denies what the real problem might be for us, “said Baldwin, thanking Kaume for the post game.
Gilas Pilipinas Naturalized Center awaits another match against Filipino-American rookie.
“I think it was an inspiration to me. As the coach said, I somehow rejected him at the beginning of the first trimester, so I need to learn how he walks and how his team is using him, “said Kaume.” It’s also a great learning experience. It was a tough match against him. I’m looking forward to the same match again. “
Although Phillips appeared on the occasion of his first Atenio-La Salle game, looking at his game in a similar way, La Dale coach Derrick Pumaren said his young adults still have a lot to learn as they try to find a way to win back against them. Santo Thomas University (2-2) at the MOA Arena on Tuesday, where fans will return for the first time.
“Michael will give us the intensity we need, the spark we need, especially on the boards,” he said. “But we probably made a lot of mistakes. He also got tired and lost steam in the second half. But even then he gave us the necessary board. ”
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