Michaelo Buddin has been National University-Sta. Elena's x-factor off the bench in its first two games in the Spikers' Turf Open Conference.
In the Nationals' opener against Army-Katinko, which they won in four sets, the 6-foot-1 open hitter produced eight points in less than two frames of action.
Then against Navy, a five-setter marathon was nabbed by NU-Sta. Elena, Buddin was once again an instant contributor off the bench with 13 points in less than four periods only.
Aware of the NU-Nazareth product exploits, head coach Dante Alinsunurin rewarded the young gun with a place in the first six against Santa Rosa City on Saturday.
And he did not disappoint, producing eight points in the 25-16, 25-16, 25-22 quick win, including two aces from the service line.
"Thankful po ako sa tiwala na binibigay sa akin ni coach and sa teammates ko. Maraming maraming salamat sa tiwala na ibinigay and I'll do my best po every game," said the 21-year-old pride of Puerto Princesa, Palawan.
"Every single day ng training namin binibigay ko 'yung best ko para maipakita kay coach na deserve ko rin mag first six."
Playing for Alinsunurin, Buddin said choosing NU for his collegiate career was a no-brainer.
The veteran bench tactician also handles the country's men's national volleyball team.
"Thankful po kasi dahil nirecruit niya ako and ginusto ko rin naman po siya. Hindi ko na pinakawalan, kahit anong mangyari ga-grab ko na 'yung opportunity na 'yun," shared Buddin.
