Ateneo's Wong overcomes nerves in first start

MANILA, Philippines – Taking the place of an iconic player is no easy task, but Deanna Wong performed capably in her first start for the Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles in UAAP Season 80.

Wong is now Ateneo's starting setter, taking over the position that had been occupied by the legendary Jia Morado for four seasons. In their first game of Season 80 against Far Eastern University (FEU) on Sunday, Wong finished with four points and 40 excellent sets.

Unfortunately for the Lady Eagles, they were unable to open their season with a win as the Lady Tamaraws hacked out a 19-25, 25-21, 18-25, 25-20, 15-9 triumph.

Ateneo's Deanna Wong made her first start as setter on Sunday against FEU. Arvin Lim, ABS-CBN Sports

"Sayang lang," said Wong after the game. "We were up na by like five points (in Set 5). But I think it's a lesson to be learned lang talaga. I think we have much to improve on lang."

Even though the Lady Eagles lost in her debut as a starting setter, it was still a job well done for Wong. The third-year player barely saw any time on the court in her first season, then played as a libero in Season 79.

It is only now that she is finally getting to play her natural position.

Author: Camille B. Naredo, ABS-CBN News
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