Collins Akowe, the first non-Filipino to win the UAAP boys' basketball MVP, faces increased competition with the arrival of three more foreign student-athletes (FSAs). While acknowledging the challenge, Akowe sees this as motivation to further elevate his game. Despite the tougher competition, Akowe remains determined to lead his team, the Nazareth School of National University (NU) Bullpups, to victory and avenge last year's finals loss.
Collins Akowe , the Nigerian center who made history as the first non-Filipino to win the UAAP boys' basketball MVP award in 2024, is facing a new challenge in Season 87 : a larger pool of foreign student-athletes (FSAs). Joining Akowe are UST's Racine Kane, UE's Jean Bana, and La Salle's Christian Mben, bringing a welcomed boost to teams across the league.
While Akowe acknowledges that the competition will be tougher, he views these additions as a motivating factor to elevate his game even further. 'It gives me motivation because I know there are other [FSAs] this season,' Akowe shared. 'You know, they are really good athletes, and I just need to stay always ready when I’m facing them.' Akowe's journey to the UAAP started in 2022 at the age of 17, having learned basketball in 2020 after initially playing football. Standing at 6-foot-10, his impressive frame combined with exceptional footwork and strength has made him a dominant force on the court. His coach, Kevin de Castro, recognizes Akowe's experience as a key advantage. 'Perhaps there will be some adjustments since there are already imports, because last year, it was just Collins. Now, it is slightly challenging, but at least our edge compared to other imports is he already has experience playing in the UAAP,' De Castro explained. In his first games of the season, Akowe showcased his continued dominance, posting impressive performances against both Kane and Mben. Despite his success, Akowe remains focused on self-improvement. 'I think I’ve said this before, the imports will give me more matchups, but I think handle them this season. I just have to continue working on myself,' he asserted. Last year, Akowe led the Nazareth School of National University (NU) Bullpups with remarkable averages of 17.14 points, 21.07 rebounds, and 2.21 blocks per game. However, they fell short of the championship title in the finals against Adamson Junior Falcons. This season, the Bullpups are relying on Akowe's continued performance, acknowledging him as the only tenured high school import in the country. De Castro emphasizes the importance of Akowe's development for his future. 'I told him that he has to get this right coming into college. This is the time to enhance his skills…. Besides, we need him,' De Castro stated. With numerous games still ahead, Akowe aims for consistency and is determined to make a statement in each match, seeking redemption for last year's loss. 'We need to continue making statements, every game…. We need to make statements because last season, we fell short,' Akowe declared.
UAAP Collins Akowe Foreign Student-Athletes Basketball Nazareth School Of National University (NU) Competition Season 87
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