Wong
CEBUANA setter Deanna Wong of the Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles has been a revelation so far and her readiness to answer to the call after the departure of Jia Morado was recently rewarded as she was declared the UAAP Press Corps Player of the Week for the period of March 21 to March 25.
The former University of San Jose-Recoletos standout put her ability on full display during Ateneo’s last two outings, dishing off 50 excellent sets against University of the East and a career-high 63 excellent sets in a come-from-behind over Adamson University.
Wong bested teammates Kat Tolentino and Jhoana Maraguinot, University of Santo Tomas ace spiker and fellow Cebuana Sisi Rondina, La Salle libero Dawn Macandili, and FEU setter Kyle Negrito for the prestigious honor.
More importantly, the honor emphasizes that Wong is finally embracing the huge role she was left with after Morado decided to pass up on playing her final season with the Lady Eagles.
With Wong at the helm, the Lady Eagles are at the top of the UAAP in spiking efficiency (31 percent), despite ranking sixth in digging (11.2 digs per set) and reception efficiency (25.5 percent).
“Actually I don’t notice it or I really don’t mind,” said the 19-year old playmaker. “What’s in my head is how I can chase the ball, how I can set the ball even if I mis-receive. It’s a good thing but it’s better if we win.”
Already assured of at least a playoff for a Final Four spot, Wong said the Lady Eagles are hungry for more and would be developing their chemistry even more for when the competition ramps up in the playoffs.
“It really all boils down to character and what Coach Tai (Bundit) always says, ‘heartstrong.’ No matter what happens just play our best and everything else will follow.”