No breaks for UP as reliable Malick Diouf earns UAAP Player of the Week honors

Despite a short break to give way for the fifth window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, University of the Philippines' Malick Diouf said they will not take a break as they continue to roll in UAAP Season 85.

"Break? I don't think we're going to have a break. We're going to practice every day. But, for now, we just have to focus [on] the next games. Like, be ready." said Diouf.

Diouf has been efficient and reliable in the Diliman-based squad's campaign, averaging 16 points, 10.3 boards, three assists, one steal, and 1.6 blocks, in their three-game winning streak since the second round started.

The big man, who also came through with a previous career-best 20 points in UP's 91-70 win over Adamson, shot 10-of-13 from the field, and went perfect in the first half (7/7) as the Maroons started scorching hot at 12-0 versus UE en route to their 6th straight win.

Diouf tallied 23 points, 15 rebounds, four assists, three steals, and two blocks to lead UP to an 83-69 drubbing of the Red Warriors.

With his consistent monster numbers, Diouf has been named the Collegiate Press Corps UAAP Player of the Week presented by San Miguel Corporation and the Philippine Sports Commission.

The Diliman big man bested teammate Zav Lucero, NU's Jolo Manansala, FEU's Bryan Sajonia, Adamson's Cedrick Manzano, and Ateneo's Ange Kouame in the award deliberated upon by print and online media regularly covering the league. The award is also backed by MNL Kingpin, Tinapayan Festival, and Jockey as its minor sponsors.

—Justin Kenneth Carandang/JMB, GMA Integrated News