University of Santo Tomas’ Collins Akowe in action against National University. Handout photo//19th FilOil Preseason Cup.MANILA — As University of Santo Tomas looks to build on its promising UAAP Season 88 men's basketball campaign, star big man Collins Akowe understands that he now has a bigger role to play.
"Coming into my second year, I need to step up in terms of leadership," said Akowe after being named to the Collegiate Press Corps (CPC) Men's Basketball Mythical Team on Monday.
The Growling Tigers are coming off a Final Four finish last season, with third-seeded UST falling to erstwhile defending champion University of the Philippines, 81-82, in the semifinals.
What followed were the departures of Nic Cabañero and Forthsky Padrigao, with both veteran guards exhausting their collegiate eligibility.
For the 6-foot-10 bruising big man from Nigeria, however, the departure of the team's senior leaders signals the need for him to expand his role beyond being a force in the paint.
"We're just trying to fill the void they left behind," said Akowe, who was also named to the Season 88 Mythical Five. "I need to help my teammates make the right decisions."
A product of UAAP high school hoops himself, Akowe understands the challenges of adjusting to the collegiate ranks.
And with the Tigers welcoming promising rookies Kirk Canete and Charles Esteban, among others, Akowe is determined to help ease their transition to college basketball.
"I need to help them in any way I can as they adjust to college basketball," he stressed.
Akowe and the rest of the Tigers are currently in the middle of their campaign in the 19th FilOil Preseason Cup, with UST emerging as one of four UAAP teams to advance to the crossover quarterfinals.
For the 20-year-old, that progress is an encouraging sign as the Tigers continue their preparations for Season 89 later this year.
"We're getting there. We're just trying to find our rhythm. Hopefully, by the time the season starts, we'll be even better," he said.