Adamson rookie Shaina Nitura tries to score against NU in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Shaina Nitura is embracing Adamson’s growing pains in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament.
Nitura was limited to a season-low 13 points on a 9-of-49 attacking clip as Adamson got swept by defending champion National University, 21-25. 23-25, 18-25, on Wednesday at Mall of Asia Arena.
“I don’t think it’s a bad thing that we’re on a losing streak because we need to learn from it. It’s something we have to go through in order to get better. We just need to endure and keep doing what we’re doing,” said Nitura, whose squad dropped its third consecutive loss, in Filipino.
READ: UAAP: NU cruises past coach’s former team Adamson
https://twitter.com/LanceAgcaoilINQ/status/1899752058590560633
“Not all of our losses, except for the FEU game, were bad performances. In some, we really fought hard and wanted to win, but we just weren’t lucky. Soon, we’ll reach the point where we’ll start winning.”
Despite sliding to a 2-4 record, the former UAAP girls’ MVP and champion relished her opportunity facing the veteran duo of Alyssa Solomon and Bella Belen.
“I’m really grateful because before, I only used to watch them. So many people idolize them because they’re really strong. I’m thankful that I’m now part of it, and I’ve learned a lot from their team, especially from their individual players who are really talented,” said Nitura.
Nitura remains optimistic about their playoff chances as the Lady Falcons close the first round against the University of the Philippines over the weekend at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“It’s all about trust. I trust my teammates, the team, the coaching staff, and myself because nothing is impossible,” she said.
READ: UAAP: Goggles not standing in the way of Shaina Nitura’s rise
Nitura also shied away from commenting on the recent issue involving some members of her family over racist remarks toward Far Eastern University after the Lady Falcons’ loss to the Lady Tamaraws last Saturday, which did not sit well with UAAP fans.
“I didn’t really have time to use my phone, especially ne on social media, because I’m always busy,” said Nitura.
“We also have a lot of responsibilities to handle, being both students and athletes, and managing relationships with our teammates. So, I think it helps cover up the times when we feel bored or distracted.”