Wins have proven to be elusive for Mapua University in the first round of NCAA Season 98. It took the Cardinals nine games to finally barge into the win column as they defeated Emilio Aguinaldo College on Saturday to improve to 1-8.
And after getting that first taste of victory, the Cardinals are hoping there's nowhere to go but up for them.
"At least na-feel ulit namin na manalo. Napakasarap manalo talaga," said Mapua team captain Warren Bonifacio.
Paolo Hernandez, last season's Most Improved Player, stressed they will be a different team come the second round as they eye to claw their way back in bid for a Final Four return.
"After eight losses, dito na ulit kami. Back on track. And hopefully madala namin ito into second round," Hernandez said.
"Pinatunayan namin na 'yung mga sabi sabi sa amin sa comments sa labas, pinatunayan namin na hindi kami basta-basta. Sa second round, ibang Cardinals ang makikita niyo."
Bonifacio and Hernandez took charge in their 67-55 win over the Generals with the senior skipper pouring in a double-double outing of 16 points and 10 rebounds while Hernandez chipped in 12 markers, seven boards, and three assists.
Their stellar production played a huge factor as Mapua finally ended its drought, and the veteran duo is hoping that they carry over their momentum in the second round.
"Kahit 'pag kami lang 'yung magkakausap, sabi namin kahit isang panalo lang talagang magtutuloy-tuloy na 'to. And sa bait ng Diyos, binigay sa amin 'yung panalo ngayon and siguro ito 'yung momentum na hinahanap namin," Bonifacio said.
—JMB, GMA News
