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Mike Phillips thanks QMB, Momowei for great match-ups

Photo source: UAAP Media Team

Mike Phillips has consistently wowed UAAP fans with his gameplay. DLSU Green Archers head coach Topex Robinson has often called Phillips the “reliable” one. Their game against the UE Red Warriors to open the second round efficiently displayed that side of Phillips, who is now second overall in the UAAP MVP race.

MVP forerunner Kevin Quiambao struggled in the game, so Phillips stepped up to lead the team with 27 points, 17 rebounds, and 5 assists. 

However, amidst the impressive statistics, Phillips emphasized how the piece of paper does not give credit where it’s due. Behind all of those points are his teammates, who helped him through great runs and passes. 

Kung makikita niyo po, ‘yong mga points ko and mga rebounds ko ay galing sa teammates [ko]. My teammates are not going to get credit for coming off the ball screen hard and attacking one of the best shot-blockers, [Precious] Momowei, and free me up, you know?”

He added:

My teammates really make me look good in those areas. I’m able to come in and be my energetic self because of them. For me, I was kind of just highlighting their contributions. That’s what Coach [Topex] always says–those things don’t come up on the stat sheet. When I rolled, and Josh David is sprinting his butt off to the corner, and JC is attacking hard with no fear, CJ, my guy, is attacking with no fear, then it just makes my job a lot easier trying to paddle through those battles.”

He also wanted to give credit to the prior matchup against Quentin Millora-Brown of the UP Maroons to end the first round. The DLSU big man believed it helped him prepare to face UE’s own towering big in Momowei, who challenged Phillips throughout the contest on both sides of the floor.

I was grateful that I got po that match-up with QMB. I think that really helped me prepare for this match with Momowei,” he said. 

Phillips also talked highly of Momowei’s playing time, averaging 30 minutes a game, and even reaching 40 for some contests, playing the entire match-up. 

He’s always active, and that takes a lot out of the guy. Coming into the game, I just know I have a lot of respect for him. I know that I really need to bring my A-game to always battle with him.”

Apparently, during the game, the two would go back and forth. Even in the heated moments, Momowei and Phillips poked fun at each other, saying “You got me, I got you back.”

More than the game, it’s just that camaraderie. From an energetic guy like him, it really gives me energy as well,” Phillips added.

Read Similar: Green Archers Quiambao, Phillips lead UAAP MVP race as 1-2