Meet the DLSU Green Archers’ new weapon for UAAP Season 87.
Get ready for La Salle’s next big thing.
Henry Agunanne, the 6-foot-11 Nigerian center, is set to make his long-awaited UAAP debut for the Green Archers in the upcoming UAAP Season 87 this month, bringing with him a blend of size, skill, and potential that has the Taft faithful buzzing with anticipation.
After a standout freshman season at Centro Escolar University, the big man found himself at the center of a fierce recruitment battle.
Ultimately, it was DLSU, under the guidance of Coach Topex Robinson, who secured his services, beating out other UAAP powerhouses for his signature.
A new tower in Taft
The past year has been one of growth and adaptation for Henry. Serving his mandatory residency period, he has immersed himself in the Green Archers system, honing his skills and building chemistry with his new teammates.
His performances in preseason tournaments, including the PBA D-League and FilOil EcoOil Preseason Cup, have offered glimpses of his potential impact in the UAAP.
“It’s been a tough preparation,” Agunanne reflects. “When I came over here, I was doing a residency for one year. During that whole time, I got to see how the program was and see how the system was.”
For Henry, this period of observation and adaptation has been crucial. The transition from CEU to the storied halls of La Salle brought with it a new level of expectation and a more sophisticated basketball program.
He speaks of this time with a mixture of reverence and excitement, acknowledging the growth he’s experienced. “I got to learn, grow, and understand how the program works. It’s been a build-up up to this moment,” Agunnane notes.
Refining his game
Henry’s focus during the offseason has also been comprehensive but with particular emphasis on certain aspects of his game. “I think I try my best to give attention to most parts of my game,” he explains, “but I think I’ve improved in my inside shots, posting up, getting the ball inside, and scoring.”
This emphasis on interior play is not surprising given Agunanne’s imposing stature. However, he’s also worked diligently on expanding his range and versatility.
“Also, I worked on getting the ball outside, driving from outside of the paint into the key, and working on my free throws,” he adds, hinting at a more dynamic offensive repertoire.
Maturity beyond his years
Agunanne’s words about his mentality going into the season also reflected a quality that has already endeared him to the DLSU coaching staff and fans alike. “I think my mentality is just to stay focused, keep the distractions less, and keep the main thing always,” he shares.
When asked about specific matchups he’s looking forward to, Agunanne’s response was diplomatic yet revealing.
“I’m not looking at playing any team in particular. I’m excited to play every team in the UAAP,” he said. However, he couldn’t help but single out one potential clash that has already captured the imagination of basketball fans.
“I think an exciting game for us would be the game against UP because we’ve been going neck-to-neck during the preseason,” Agunanne admitted. Indeed, the preseason battles between La Salle and the Fighting Maroons have been nothing short of thrilling, with both teams showcasing their championship credentials.
As Henry prepares to represent the green and white, his focus remains unwavering. “Go out there, have fun, and be my best self every day we play,” he stated, encapsulating a philosophy that could very well become the mantra for this new-look La Salle squad.
Sky’s the limit
The pressure of donning the iconic green and white jersey is a challenge he also embraces with open arms.
“In general, I think the goal I have for myself is to help this team, number one, to get another championship,” Agunanne shares. “And secondly, I want to be my best self ever, better than I’ve ever played before.”
The transition from CEU to DLSU has been a significant leap for Agunanne as he acknowledges the stark differences in coaching systems and the heightened expectations that come with playing for one of the Philippines’ most prestigious basketball programs. Yet, he remains unfazed, grounded by a support system that extends beyond the basketball court.
“Of course, there’s pressure, there’s expectations,” Henry admits. “For me, I think it’s believing in who I am and what I can do. Talking with my family, my teammates, people that are closer to me — those help take the pressure off the game.”
But amidst the swirling expectations and the weight of La Salle’s basketball legacy, Agunanne remains focused on the joy of the game. “Trying to have fun whenever I step on the court,” he says, a reminder that at its core, basketball is still a game to be enjoyed.
As the UAAP Season 87 approaches, all eyes will be on Henry. Will he join the pantheon of UAAP bigs like Ben Mbala and Ange Kouame? Only time will tell.
But one thing is certain: with his skill, determination, and humility, Agunanne is ready to carve his legacy in the annals of DLSU basketball history.
Banner image by Excel Panlique. Special thanks to Dayne Aduna.