Terrence Fortea puts injury behind, makes most of minutes

MANILA, Philippines — Terrence Fortea provided the much-needed spark off the bench as the University of the Philippines overcame a flat start to stay unbeaten in five games in the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball tournament.

Fortea made the most of his 16 minutes of play with 13 points on a perfect 3-of-3 three-point shooting to help UP past Adamson, 69-57, on Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.

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“I started preparing my mindset from the bench, so that when coach gave me a chance, I could make the most of the minutes I got. I’m happy that I was able to contribute to today’s game,” said the fourth-year guard, who also had five rebounds, two steals, and an assist.

SCHEDULE: UAAP Season 87 basketball

Fortea said his 4-of-4 field goal shooting came from the confidence he built from practice and credited his teammates for overcoming a 9-26 first quarter.

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“I practiced those shots, so it was just about confidence and trusting myself,” he said. “We talked about keeping on pushing even when our opponents were playing well. It wasn’t just me; as a team, we didn’t give up. It was a bonus that my shots went in, but it was really a team effort that got us the win.”

After  an injury-riddled season last year, Fortea is eager to contribute to his team this year in their bid to regain the crown from back-to-back silver medal finishes in the past two years.

READ: UAAP: Terrence Fortea makes timely return for shorthanded UP

“Coach Gold told me that it’s over, and there’s no point in dwelling on that injury. I have more control over the situation now, so I’ll give it my all, no matter what happens,” said Fortea, reflecting on his past knee injury that limited his playing time last year.

UP coach Goldwin Monteverde lauded Fortea and their bench players, who scored 51 points to complete a comeback win.

“One advantage we have as a team is that we treat each other like family. Even if the first group struggles, we always have each other’s back and try to execute what’s best for the team.”

Fortea vows to always stay ready in their next matches as UP battles the new-look University of Santo Tomas on Wednesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum before its finals rematch against defending champion La Salle.