MANILA – To represent our national men’s basketball team is a dream for any baller.
Negrense guard Mark Nonoy of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) hopes to be called up by Gilas Pilipinas someday.
The La Carlota, Negros Occidental-native said that he continues improving his ballgame to follow the footsteps of Talk ‘N Text KaTropa guard Jayson Castro who was a mainstay for the national team.
“It was my dream to be able to represent the country,” Nonoy said in an interview with CPT Crossover podcast of Cedelf Tupas. “I was not able to play (for national youth team) because I was still playing for (Hua Siong College of Iloilo Red Phoenix).”
“My goal is to be at Castro’s level,” added the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 82 Rookie of the Year awardee. “I am observing and learning his game and how he controls his speed on the court. I know I have the speed advantage against other players, but I also know that once I am defended well, I have a tough time. So, I’m trying to see parts of Castro’s game that I can integrate into my own.”
For now, however, Nonoy wants to help UST in UAAP Season 83.
“I’m working hard to prepare myself to lead the team, to run the team, and to serve as a second coach team while being on the floor,” said Nonoy. “Last season, (UST head) coach Aldin (Ayo) gave me the blessing to be a voice in the team.”
UST settled for a runner-up finish in UAAP Season 82 men’s basketball after being swept by three-peat champions Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles in the finals./PN
