Their performances have been conversation starters, decisive game moments, and could have possibly determined the difference between a victory and a defeat. While these three breakout players may be overshadowed by veteran players, their resilience never fails to come through for the Blue Eagles.
SALVATION:
NICO SALVA
What do Nico Salva and Yao Ming have in common? No, it is not their obvious god-given basketball skills, or that they have both played alongside Kobe Bryant, but it is the fact that even before they laid eyes on a basketball, they were destined to play the game.
Like the Houston Rockets center, Nico Salva’s parents were both basketball players—Salva’s parents’ having played varsity basketball for the UP Maroons. “I guess basketball is in my genes,” Salva says.
Playing back-up to resident shot blocker Nonoy Baclao, Salva has not only exemplified that he is capable of filling-in for Baclao, but his presence has proven that he is more than just another bench player. Whether it is defensively, offensively, getting rebounds, or hustling, Salva’s dynamic impact off the bench has been laced with an extra dose of confidence, making him worthy of this season’s UAAP Sixth-Man award and perhaps even one of the UAAP’s most improved players.
Experience, confidence, and a familiarity of his teammates’ playing styles, has contributed to Salva’s vast improvement this year. He also credits, however, this season’s performance to his additional training sessions during the off-season.
“I lifted weights and shot baskets before or after practices. I think that really helped,” Salva says. And of course, whose performance wouldn’t be boosted by a few tips from NBA superstar Kobe Bryant—Salva’s long-time basketball idol.
As one Blue Eagle leaves the nest, another one is born. Nonoy Baclao is leaving big shoes to fill for the 6’4” power forward, but Salva, who is more excited than fazed by the challenges that are bestowed upon him, will fill those shoes with his own set of tricks and an attacking edge.
STEALING THE SPOTLIGHT:
ERIC SALAMAT
The UAAP’s elimination round allowed Rabeh and Nonoy to be their usual, consistent selves, but it was Eric Salamat who was spectacular.
Much was expected this year from the San Sebastian Recoletos High School alumnus, and he proved everyone right. Salamat showed maturity in his game in the first 14 games of Season 72, averaging 11.9 points per contest on 43 percent shooting. He also averaged 2.1 steals, 2.6 rebounds, and 3.6 assists for a strong performance across the board.
Salamat’s numbers do not go without intangibles worth mentioning. He toiled day in and day out, and it showed on the court. He led scoring runs, made crucial defensive stops with his stealing prowess, and took the helm as court general alongside Jai Reyes.
The Ateneo big men may have kept the games close, but Salamat won them. His numbers were impressive, his impact undisputable, and his presence indispensible. His trademark salute said it all. It’s a thank you to all those who continue to believe in him.
In the Final 4 game against UST, Salamat scored only six points, but made the biggest plays, finishing with 4 steals and 5 assists. His scoring slump continued in a forgettable championship series with the Red Warriors, as he scored a measly four points for each of the two games.
But Salamat was back to his old ways in the decider as he exploded and was key in giving the Blue Eagles the title.
THE LITTLE BIG MAN:
EMMAN MONFORT
With his cheerful and friendly demeanor, one would never guess that Eman Monfort is the explosive guard that he is.
As backup to co-captain Jai Reyes, Monfort tasked to fill in as playmaker for the fifth year veteran; a role that Monfort has impressively made his own throughout the season. Be it through assists, scoring from the perimeter or the simple task of guarding his man, Monfort contributes in any way he can in order to keep the Blue Eagles at bay.
“I need to keep the team steady whenever Jai’s not on the floor,” Monfort says.
For Monfort, everything starts in practice. “I give my all in training for I know that what I show in practices is evident in the games,” Monfort explains, which is reflected by the good performances he has had this season.
Being recognized as an accountable player makes all the hard work worth it. “I feel satisfied for all the hard work that I did when people recognize my efforts and achievements on court,” Monfort says.
More than anything, Monfort is a team player. He credits everyone on the team, the coaches and everyone supporting him, as his motivation to work harder. “Everyone in the team helped me be the player I am now,” he says.
Being in a team is also similar to being in a family. He does everything he can to support the team. “On games I can contribute not only on points, but on other aspects as well. I help my teammates during practices, I even pray for my team’s victory often before the games,” he says.
Monfort has two years left to play in the UAAP and is aware of the challenges ahead. “I think I will have a bigger role next year, especially with the departure of Jai,” he says.
