New CSB Blazer James Nacua adjusting well to the Philippines
Photo courtesy of: Joel Pelo
Intriguing collegiate basketball standout James Nacua loves how basketball in the Philippines is more competitive compared to how it is in Australia.
“In Australia, it’s really slow, not a lot of physicality. Over here it’s more competitive. That’s why I love it over here, it’s very competitive and everyone loves to compete,” the 19-year-old, former Gilas Youth standout expressed.
Nacua finished his secondary studies at Westfields Sports High School abroad. The 6-foot-4 winger also previously suited up for San Beda-Rizal and the Philippine national team for the FIBA U18 Asian Championship 2022.
Moving to the College of Saint Benilde was not a drastic change for the electric Filipino-Australian student-athlete. He initially committed to the DLSU Green Archers but then soon found better opportunities with the CSB Blazers, leading to his decision.
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The future looks bright for his potential although he is still trying to adjust to the plays and the system of the Blazers, who compete in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament. He is looking forward to suiting up in his first campaign when the season tips off in September.
“I’m looking forward to playing my first season in college. I have been waiting for this for a while now. I’m excited for that. I’m excited to play for Coach Charles [Tiu], with my teammates,” Nacua said when asked about what he’s looking forward to with CSB.
The Blazers finished 3rd in the 99th season of the NCAA. Nacua is set to play with talented teammates Matthew Oli, Tony Ynot, Gab Cometa, Allen Liwag, and Anton Eusebio. His presence only adds to CSB’s building reputation as a major title contender.
The adjustment from his life in Australia to the Philippines wasn’t huge as he discovered independence being away from home.
“It’s a lot of freedom, I just came here to play basketball. I’m trying to become better at studying, and everything like that. For me, it’s personal and all this basketball stuff.”
