Laput sees Season 88 success coming

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Laput sees Season 88 success coming image

Photo: UAAP

By Rachel Gonzales

From the moment Shevana Laput was named captain of University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 88, she believed De La Salle University was destined to reclaim the throne.

Laput and the Lady Spikers turned that belief into reality on Saturday, completing a dominant 16-game sweep capped by a 25-22, 25-16, 25-16 victory over defending champion National University in Game 2 of the Finals before 22,509 fans at SM Mall of Asia Arena.

“We were so focused on our goal,” Laput said.

Photo: UAAP

“There was nothing else on our minds except today, except getting that championship, getting that 13th championship for coach. Ever since the end of last season, we had that one goal and we worked hard and stayed disciplined to that.”

The Filipino-Australian spiker delivered the championship-clinching kill to end La Salle’s three-year title drought and hand coach Ramil De Jesus his 13th championship.

A year after breaking down in tears following a Finals sweep at the hands of NU stars Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon, Laput once again cried on the Finals floor — this time out of joy.

Photo: UAAP

“So for us, we were sure,” Laput said. “We knew that we could get this. We manifested it. But more than that, we worked hard for it. Every single day, we worked toward that.”

After being limited to 11 points in Game 1, Laput bounced back with 20 points built on 14 attacks and six blocks in the clincher to earn Finals MVP honors.

For Laput, however, the motivation went beyond redeeming herself from an off night in the opener.

“Not very much of a personal chip. More of, I want to be the best version of myself for these girls. That’s been my goal this entire season,” Laput said.

“To help and guide these girls and support them in the way I can. I suppose today was how I could be the best version of myself for them. I’m just grateful that they trust me and support me.”

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