Jacob Bayla guarding Kevin Quiambao during the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball tournament Finals between UP Fighting Maroons and La Salle Green Archers. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — University of the Philippines rookie Jacob Bayla was a revelation in Game 1 of the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball finals, shutting down Kevin Quiambao in the second half in front of 16,202 fans on Sunday

With the two-time UAAP MVP pouring in 18 points and nine rebounds in the first half for La Salle, UP coach Goldwin Monteverde made a major adjustment in assigning Bayla to guard Quiambao.

RESULTS: UAAP Season 87 basketball Finals Game 1 – La Salle vs UP

And the Filipino-American recruit didn’t disappoint and limited Quiambao to just a point in the second half, where he missed all of his six shots. 

“Last night they just told me to stay ready whenever I come in.  I just had that mindset to work hard and just play my best. Play with a lot of heart,” said Bayla, who had five points, three steals, and two rebounds in 20 minutes of action in the 73-65 win.

UP Fighting Maroons rookie Jacob Bayla during the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball Finals Game 1. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

“You know where I come from, I’m from the States I got a lot to prove here, so just guarding the best player is really honorable.”

The Valley Christian High School in California admitted that he’s still adjusting to the physicality of the UAAP but he made sure not to waste the chance of living his dream to play in the Finals. 

READ: UAAP Finals: UP shuts down La Salle to win Game 1

“It’s a dream, for sure. I’ve been dreaming ever since I was a kid to play in a championship, the final game in college. I’m really happy and excited,” said Bayla.

“It’s definitely more physical. Everyone here has heart, and they play very hard. I just keep on learning every single day. I’ve been struggling offensively, but where I can make an impact to the team is defensively.  I’m very happy for my teammates and my coach for trusting me,” he added.

Monteverde praised his rookie for showing a big heart and never backing down against Quiambao, arguably the best collegiate player in the country right now.

“Alam mo for a rookie, to defend Kevin nung game, he showed a lot of heart on his first time to play sa UAAP finals, you know. For me, it’s really amazing na on his part na nagawa niya yun,” said the UP coach. “We prepared for kung ano yung magiging flow ng game. Kung sino yung given to defend Kevin.”

WIth a chance to help UP end a two-season title drought, expect Bayla to continue to step up in Game 2 on Wednesday at Mall of Asia Arena.

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“Just come back with the same energy and play with that heart againgoplay,” Bayla said.

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