Rhenz Abando (NOEL PABALATE)Rhenz Abando claimed the NCAA Season 97 Most Valuable Player and the Rookie of the Year awards in a ceremony held before Game 2 of the Finals at the FilOil Flying V Centre in San Juan City. The 24-year-old high leaper beat Arellano center Justin Arana and Letran teammate Jeo Ambohot for the award. Arana was hailed as the Defensive Player of the Year for the second time after collaring a total of 137 boards, 23 blocks and four steals. He was joined by Gozum, Ambohot, Calma, EAC’s Nat cosejo and Lyceum’s Omar Larupay in the Best Defensive team. Mapua’s Paolo Hernandez won the Most Improved Player award, jumping from the 35th SP ranking last season to 10th in Season 97.

Source: Manila Times May 22, 2022 18:56 UTC