UP's Jacob Bayla embraces 'unsung hero' role to stop La Salle star Jacob Cortez

University of the Philippines forward Jacob Bayla embraced his role as an "unsung hero" and "Archer Stopper" in Game 2 of the UAAP Finals, successfully containing La Salle star Jacob Cortez.

Bayla expressed his readiness for the defensive challenge, stating "I want all the smoke" and accepting the task of guarding Cortez, who had been scoring over 20 points in recent games.

Bayla's defensive pressure limited Cortez to 16 points on 6-of-15 shooting from the field, a struggle for the Green Archer's Game 1 hero.

His defensive performance, which included lockdown defense in the final possession, was crucial in UP's 66-63 victory that forced a winner-take-all Game 3.

This defensive prowess mirrors his role in containing two-time UAAP MVP Kevin Quiambao in last year's finals, contributing to UP's championship win.

Bayla's performance, which outweighed his modest offensive contribution of six points, five rebounds, and a steal, highlighted his willingness to take on difficult assignments in pursuit of a championship.

He noted that he had struggled against La Salle in their previous three encounters and needed to prove himself capable of guarding their best player.