Rookie Joaquin Tovera shone anew in La Salle’s overtime win over rival Ateneo in the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball tournament on Saturday.
Tovera drew praise from his teammate Mason Amos after leading the way with 21 points, seven rebounds and six assists, including a pass that led to Henry Agunanne’s two-handed dunk that sent the game into overtime with 12.1 seconds left in regulation.
‘He just has that composure. He knows to stay poised under pressure. Time and time again and as a Kuya, I’m really proud of him,’ said Amos of Tovera after La Salle survived a thrilling endgame, 76-73, at Araneta Coliseum.
‘I’m proud of his efforts. He doesn’t get emotional even when things get rough for him. He keeps moving forward.’
Tovera showed experience beyond his age and held the fort in the backcourt with Jacob Cortez still out due to a knee injury.
Behind Tovera, the Archers climbed to third in the standings with a 6-4 record, having won three consecutive games.
Amos, who finished with eight points and eight rebounds, also psaid Tovera’s contributions span beyond the numbers.
‘One more thing I can say about him is, he’s super humble, he’s down to earth and he’s a great teammate too.’