UAAP: Adamson rookie provides precious minutes in opening win

Adamson center Precious Jonah during a game against FEU in UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball.–UAAP PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Rookie Precious Jonah made a good account of himself in his UAAP debut, helping Adamson get off to a winning start in the Season 89 men’s basketball tournament on Sunday.

The Nigerian big man was solid on both ends for the Falcons, who stunned hosts Far Eastern University Tamaraws, 56-53, at Araneta Coliseum.

Jonah finished just two points shy of a double-double with 11 rebounds on top of four blocks, backstopping Matthew Montebon, who topscored with 18 points. Jonah also held his ground in the paint against FEU center Mo Konateh.

“Going into the game, I did not really know what to expect from him because he’s a rookie,” said Adamson coach Nash Racela.

READ: UAAP SCHEDULE: Season 89 men’s basketball tournament – first round

“First games in the UAAP are really hard, but he was able to hold his own against Mo,” he added.

Jonah limited Konateh to just five points and, most importantly, only three rebounds.

Racela attributed Jonah’s performance to the 20-year-old’s work ethic.

“He’s one of the most hardworking players you’ll ever have,” he said. “When we give them rest, he’s in the gym. When we give them an off, he’s doing something else. He’s just reaping what he sowed.”