Adamson University’s super rookie Shaina Nitura attacking De La Salle University's defense during their UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball clash. Photo from UAAP Media.MANILA — De La Salle University imposed its presence on the young Adamson University side on Saturday, but it did not come without some resistance.

Despite the Lady Spikers completing a sweep against their San Marcelino-based counterparts, La Salle’s long-time head coach Ramil de Jesus together with his star ace Angel Canino became fans of Lady Falcons super rookie Shaina Nitura and how she willed her squad to a competitive contest.

READ: Canino, Malaluan shine as La Salle vents ire on Adamson to earn 1st win

“Bata pa talaga, pero grabe maglaro. Grabe yung instinct, makikita mo yung court IQ niya sobrang taas,” said de Jesus of the Baby Lady Falcons product who finished with 16 points and three receptions against the taller Lady Spikers.

“At the same time, yung leadership niya talagang [nakita ko]. Siguro pagdating ng sophomore or junior year nito, ibang klase na ‘tong batang ‘to, sobra,” added the multi-titled mentor.

This outing came only days after Nitura shattered the league’s rookie scoring record of 33 which she put up in their previous reverse-sweep victory against Ateneo de Manila University last February 16.

That is why Canino, who became the second player to win rookie-MVP honors in the women's division, was in awe of the prowess of the 20-year-old from Cainta, Rizal.

“Pinahirapan kami niyan sa preparations pa lang,” shared Canino. “Pinahirapan niya kami kasi sabi nga ni coach Ramil, ang dami niyang variations as a player and sobrang tapang ni Nitura na kahit sino iharap mo, kaya niyang gawan ng paraan.”

Nitura might have fallen short of steering Adamson U against the Taft-based hitters, but Canino knows that Nitura will eventually rise from one of, if not, the league’s best freshman players, to those among the list of the UAAP’s best and brightest.

“Pinahirapan niya kami, kaya isa siya sa mga pinaghandaan talaga namin coming into this game,” said Angel. “Sobrang believe rin ako sa kanya kasi ang tapang niya talaga humarap sa kahit na sino. Para bang hindi siya rookie.”