‘Accidental hero’ provides roar for Lions
Given the chance to shine, rookie Benedict Adamos has seized the moment, helping San Beda hurdle Arellano U in the opener of their NCAA men’s basketball title series last week.
The 6- 6 Adamos is actually trying to fill in the big slack at the middle for main man Donald Tankoua, who is on the sidelines with an ACL tear.
And the 20-year-old Legazpi, Bicol find has more than played his new role after churning out a 16-point, seven-rebound and one shot-block effort in the Lions’ 88-85 victory over the Chiefs in Game One of their bestof-three series.
“I’m here to help the team in whatever way I can,” said Adamos, a transferee from Zamora Memorial College. “I’m also doing my best to return the trust coach (Jamike Jarin) and my teammates have been giving me,” he added.
But Adamos insisted it’s a total team effort.
“Coach gave us roles and my role is to help defend inside and score some points if there’s a chance,” he said.
While he cited Adamos’ big role in the team’s title drive, Jarin said the series is far from over.
“He’s been pretty solid for us since Donald (Tankoua) went down,” said Jarin of Adamos. “But we can’t celebrate yet because there is still Game Two and possibly, a Game Three, if we let it go that far.”
Adamos was actually one of the many heroes for San Beda in Game One with Robert Bolick and team captain Dan Sara also stepping up with big numbers and big plays.
Bolick, a tranferee from La Salle, came through not only with the crucial baskets but also a solid defense that slowed down Arellano U top gun Jio Jalalon while Sara provided the needed leadership and experience for the young San Beda squad.
Both Bolick and Sara agreed that Adamos’ hard work has made it easier for them and the rest of the team.