Despite amassing impressive numbers during their three-game streak in NCAA Season 98, Will Gozum said his focus is not on the possibility of a Most Valuable Player award, but rather on the twice-to-beat bonus, which De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde is trying to earn.
In their last three games, Gozum averaged 17.33 points, 10.33 rebounds, and 3.67 assists per game in another impressive stretch.
During their 83-78 win against San Sebastian College-Recoletos, Gozum registered 25 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists en route to the Blazers’ first Final Four appearance in two decades.
He then tallied 18 markers, 11 boards, and four dimes in their 100-88 victory against a gutsy and fellow Final Four-bound team Lyceum of the Philippines University which bolstered their bid for the playoff bonus.
With his impressive numbers in all-important games for the Blazers, Gozum earned his third Collegiate Press Corps NCAA Player of the Week award.
However, there are other more important things for the Taft big man.
“For now, I don’t want that MVP thing to get into my head because that just gives more pressure. What I really want is that [twice-to-beat] advantage because it’s one of the biggest steps in reaching the Finals,” Gozum said.
The Blazers will head to another crucial match on Tuesday, this time against San Beda University, who are also gunning for the twice-to-beat bonus.
“Expect us to double our efforts because last round, they [Red Lions] almost got us so we know they won’t give the win so easily this time,” said Gozum.
Gozum bested fellow Blazer Miggy Corteza, San Beda University’s James Kwekuteye, and San Sebastian College-Recoletos’ Ichie Altamirano for the Player of the Week award presented by the Philippine Sports Commission and San Miguel Corporation. The award, decided and deliberated upon by print and online writers covering the beat, is also backed by minor sponsors Tinapayan Festival, MNL Kingpin, and Jockey.
—Justin Kenneth Carandang/JMB, GMA Integrated News
