Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 29) — For the second straight year, Ben Mbala of the De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Archers is the UAAP Most Valuable Player.
The 6-foot-6 Cameroonian was the clear winner of the highest individual honor in the collegiate league after garnering 96.58 statistical points at the end of the elimination round. He received the award moments before Game 2 of the men’s seniors basketball finals between La Salle and the Ateneo Blue Eagles Wednesday afternoon.
Statistical points are computed based on points scored, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks.
Despite missing the Green Archers’ first two matches due to an international stint in the 2017 FIBA (International Basketball Federation) Afrobasket tournament, the 22-year-old Mbala still averaged 26.1 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks for La Salle in the 14-game preliminary stage.
This year’s Mythical Five awardees include Ateneo’s Thirdy Ravena with 66.5 points, National University’s J-jay Alejandro with 63.86 points, University of the East’s Alvin Pasaol with 63.43, and La Salle’s Ricci Rivero 56.3.
University of the Philippines’ Juan Gómez de Liaño, meanwhile, was hailed Rookie of the Year.
