Letran Knights point guard and leader Titing Manalili may be back in action, but he himself admitted that he isn’t 100% just yet. Even so, he is working toward regaining his form as the Knights prepare for the playoffs of the NCAA Season 102 Men’s Basketball Tournament.
Manalili Working Toward Return to Form
The reigning Rookie of the Year played only his second game since returning from a knee injury in Letran’s 85-83 win over the Perpetual Help Altas on Jimboy Estrada’s game-winner. It was the Knights’ final game of the elimination round. Prior to that, the EAC Generals spoiled Manalili’s return after being sidelined for three weeks due to an injured knee.
“Not totally 100%, pero dahan-dahan kasi sabi ko nga nung interview mahirap kung kalaban mo ang utak mo,” he told Rebanse after Letran’s win over Perpetual. “Need ko pa ng konting rehab and time, ng practice, ng more reps sa practice sa court para mabuild ko ‘yung kumpyansa ko ulit sa game.”
Manalili’s numbers reflect that process. Since returning to action, the young guard has yet to produce the stat lines he is known for. In Letran’s loss to EAC, Manalili recorded 8 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals in 20 minutes of action. Against the Altas, the Cebuano native finished with 5 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals in 23 minutes of playing time.
Preparing for Letran’s Toughest Battle Yet
Last season, Letran faced a twice-to-win disadvantage when it took on the Arellano Chiefs in the quarterfinals.
The Knights managed to overcome that challenge, but this time around, they will enter the playoffs with the twice-to-beat advantage on their side.
When asked about their position, Manalili stressed that the Knights should not become overly confident despite having the advantage.
“Sobrang laking advantage ‘yung twice-to-beat pero hindi kami mag kukumpyansa kase nga LPU [Pirates] o Mapua [Cardinals], talagang palaban ‘yung team na yun. So, either or, paghahandaan namin,” Manalili said.
The former Letran Squire then shared what Letran coach Allen Ricardo keeps telling the team: “prepare for the hardest battle” yet.
“So ‘yun, wala na kaming sasayangin na oras. Kumbaga, pinag-iisipan na namin ‘yung mga darating pa. ‘Yun nga sabi ni Coach Allen, prepare for the hardest battle. So, ‘yun, simulan namin sa training,” Manalili added.
With more than a week to prepare and recover, Manalili will surely do everything he can to help the Knights make the most of their twice-to-beat advantage when they face the Mapua Cardinals next week.
