It was indeed a happy birthday for San Beda University's James Payosing.
Payosing, who turned 21 years old on Saturday, registered a double-double performance of 12 points and 11 rebounds en route to the Red Lions' 74-69 win against Jose Rizal University.
The win was actually something he prayed for.
"Bago 'yung game, sabi ko kay Lord, i-gift mo na 'yung panalo. Binigay sa amin," Payosing said.
(Before the game, I prayed to the Lord to give us the win as a gift. He gave it.)
The two-way guard, who was also crucial in San Beda's late rally in the fourth quarter, said he was just doing his role in the team.
"Sa game, wala akong hesitation. Gagawin ko lang 'yung part ko, role ko na makapag-contribute sa team namin para makuha ang panalo," he said.
(In the game, I have no hesitations. I'll just do my part, my role to contribute to the team to get the win.)
While JRU almost closed the gap late in the game, Payosing said it was a test of character for the Mendiola-based squad.
"D'un nakikita ang character namin as individuals and as a team. These past few games, natatalo kami, hinihila ko sila na hindi kami titigil, hindi pa tapos 'yung games namin. Nakadalawang panalo kami and may chance pa kami makapasok sa Final Four."
(Those games show our character as individuals and as a team. These past few games, we were losing, I told them not to stop and our games are not yet done. We had two wins and we still have a chance to make it to the Final Four.)
San Beda currently has a 10-6 card, tied with De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde at the third spot of the standings.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
