Mapua's Yam Concepcion in the NCAA Season 102 men's basketball tournament. Angela Davocol, NCAA Philippines.MANILA — After starting NCAA Season 102 with three straight losses, Mapua University has been soaring with Yam Concepcion leading the charge.
Concepcion has been a big part of the Cardinals’ resurgence thanks to his all-around performance, helping Mapua claim the scalps of Arellano University and defending champion San Beda University for back-to-back wins.
For winning two straight games with Mapua, Concepcion earned the Collegiate Press Corps’ Player of the Week honors from September 28 to October 2.
The 24-year-old forward took charge in the Cardinals’ 69-55 victory over Arellano, delivering an all-around performance of 22 points, 11 rebounds, five blocks, four steals, and three assists.
While Concepcion’s other outing limited him to four points, he still made his presence felt with nine rebounds, six assists, a steal, and a block as Mapua stunned San Beda, 55-54.
For Concepcion, it’s all about staying ready and learning from their past losses as they navigate their way in the Grand Old League under new head coach Chito Victolero.
“Pinaalahanan lang kami ni Coach Chito na makakaranas kami ng tough losses at good wins. Dapat marunong lang kami mag-handle ng kahit na anong bagay,” Concepcion said.
“Hindi naman matatapos [ang campaign namin] sa liga sa mga talo na ‘yun. Pusong kampyeon lang,” he added.
In a closely contested selection, Concepcion received the nod of scribes from print and online media covering the collegiate beat, winning over Justine Sanchez of College of Saint Benilde, T-Mc Ongotan of Arellano, Jamhir Eligado and Lawrence Mangubat of Jose Rizal University, and EJ Castillo of Emilio Aguinaldo College.