Mbala says UP loss was a ‘wake-up call’ for Green Archers

MANILA, Philippines – Don’t call it a comeback.

One week after seeing their undefeated run end against UP, the defending champion DLSU Green Archers were raring to return on the court with a vengeance. Unfortunately, it was winless UST who was in the way of the champions’ wrath, as the Archers exploded for a season-high 29-point blowout, 115-86, against the listless Growling Tigers on Saturday, September 30.

Evidently, their stunning loss against the Fighting Maroons lit a fire under the defending champs, as they passed the ball a lot more and inserted more players than usual despite the loss of Aljun Melecio to sickness. Aside from the league- and season-high margin of victory, they also set new season-bests in team field goal percentage (52.33% – also new league-best) and team assists (26) while tying their highest scoring output with 115. Ironically enough, it was UST who shot the previous league-high of 52% in their loss against Adamson before La Salle broke their record against them.

Although head coach Aldin Ayo was not available for interview, it was reigning MVP Ben Mbala who answered questions for the media after his season-low 29-point, 9-rebound performance. 

For him, it was their loss that changed the team’s mindset.

“I’d say it was a wake-up call,” said the Cameroonian import. “Coming off last season, being really dominant and being champions, people say we’re the team to beat. But no, we’re just a team like everyone else.” 

“Everyone has a 50-50 chance of winning the championship,” he added. “UP played well and they just reminded us that we’re just a team like everyone else and that we have to find a way to get back on that level that we had last year. If ever, we have to increase and play better than last year.”

When asked about whether he was concerned that he had lower stats and that he broke his double-double streak, he said, “I’m not here to look for double-doubles. I’m just here to help the team win. If ever the team will play better, then I can give [my stats] away – I don’t mind. It’s not about myself it’s about the team first.”

Before their highly-anticipated finals rematch against eternal rival Ateneo Blue Eagles on Sunday, October 8, the Archers have one more pit stop against UE, another winless team, on Wednesday. Judging by how they kept their heads down and methodically obliterated UST, it’s safe to say that another upset victory may not be happening against them anytime soon. – Rappler.com