NCAA: Injured Mangubat unfazed by bigger burden for undermanned JRU

Jose Rizal University gunner Lawrence Mangubat against Mapua University in NCAA Season 102 men’s basketball. NCAA Philippines.MANILA — Still dealing with a right shoulder injury, Lawrence Mangubat is set to shoulder a heavier load as an undermanned Jose Rizal University continues its title pursuit in NCAA Season 102.

Currently atop Group A with nine wins through 12 outings, the Heavy Bombers will be without Chris Hubilla for an extended period as he recovers from a partial MCL tear in his left knee.

Further complicating JRU’s bid for a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals are defending champion San Beda University and College of Saint Benilde, which remain within striking distance of the top spot with identical 8-3 records.

But while the circumstances present a daunting challenge, the left-handed gunner is embracing the responsibility as he hopes to help JRU end a championship drought that has stretched for more than five decades.

“Ready naman na ako sa ganung responsibilities. Ginagawa ko naman sa ensayo lahat,” said Mangubat, who finished with 19 points, six rebounds, and two steals in JRU’s 71-58 win over Mapua University on Tuesday.

The pressure has shifted for Mangubat from when the Heavy Bombers opened their campaign.

Earlier in the season, Mangubat and Hubilla primarily led by example, bringing championship experience from their time at Mapua University to a youthful JRU squad.

Now, with Hubilla sidelined, a greater burden has fallen on Mangubat, particularly on the offensive end.

Still, the Cebuano guard remains unfazed, insisting that his preparation has him ready for the added responsibilities.

“Sobrang competitive ko talaga sa ensayo, sa scrimmages namin. May physicality talaga, para masanay yung mga kasama ko,” said Mangubat. “Preparation ko yun para sa game, napu-push din ako talaga sa limit.”

With the support of head coach Nani Epondulan and the rest of the Heavy Bombers, Mangubat is confident JRU can collectively fill the void.

“Kinakausap ko sila to remain composed, with the guidance of the coaches, na kailangan naming maging isa. So give and take lang,” he said.

Jose Rizal University‘s Lawrence Mangubat #10 and Allan Laurenaria (#8) against Mapua University in NCAA Season 102 men’s basketball. NCAA Philippines

For his part, Epondulan has been pleased with how the Heavy Bombers have responded to Mangubat’s leadership.

“Nakikita namin sa mga bata na naka-focus sila sa process namin,” said Epondulan. “Willing din sila tumanggap at sumalo, so nagre-reflect talaga rito yung puso ng mga player na they refuse to lose, and yung attitude nila to do whatever it takes para manalo.”

Still, Epondulan acknowledged that JRU’s future largely hinge on its veteran leader.

“When we talk about JRU, we talk about Lawrence Mangubat and Chris Hubilla. Since Hubilla got hurt, yung burden talaga ng leadership, yung offense at defense napunta talaga kay Lawrence,” he said.

“So kung saan pupunta si Lawrence, most likely doon pupunta ang team namin.”