As the end of the first round of UAAP Season 87 drew near, the DLSU Green Archers were in the midst of a mini slump. 

The Green Archers suffered a tough loss to the UE Red Warriors and followed it up with a victory over the then-winless FEU Tamaraws that was not convincing but was a win nonetheless. A matchup against the UP Fighting Maroons loomed large and momentum heading to that game (especially with a week in between games) was critical. 

The UST Growling Tigers presented an intriguing matchup, because their depth in the backcourt would test that of La Salle. However, it was Mike Phillips who imposed his will against the Growling Tigers’ frontcourt in the end. 

Unlike most of his matchups, Phillips can jump out of the gym and react quickly. This has helped him become a relentless rebounder, with his nine offensive rebounds eclipsing that of UST’s (six). It didn’t stop there as his quick reflexes allowed him to get the Growling Tigers’ defense off their feet during DLSU’s 88-67 win. In fact, Phillips was playing with extra emotion, and it was laudable that he had one of his better games despite coping with the loss of a friend. 

At his best, Phillips is a matchup nightmare who can draw fouls on both ends of the floor. When he’s patient in the post, he can slip past defenders or work his way to at least a trip to the free throw line. Philipps’ physical gifts also allow him to get a hand on the ball even as opposing big men try to keep him off the ball. Defensively, switching onto him does not make life easier and while it does draw him out of the paint, Phillips can run back and swat your shot away. 

Phillips’ athleticism has at times, though, become a double-edged sword; his dunks and quick finishes have come with his over aggressive approach. An easy basket can quickly be erased if Phillips travels or loses the ball as he gets his shot up. Teams have noticed that letting Phillips get too confident can lead to missed shots and wasted possessions for the Green Archers. He also has a tendency to bite on the fakes of his opponent and the result sometimes leads to unnecessary fouls. Even so, you can’t fault Phillips because he’s just trying to help his team win. 

But winning doesn’t have to be so difficult if Phillips takes things easy. A missed shot from him or his teammates? Get the rebound and find another way to score. Defense clogging the paint? Find the open man in the lane or hovering behind the 3-point line. Teammates having difficulty breaking the press? Move closer so they can make the extra pass to cross the halfcourt line. An opponent driving to the paint? Keep those hands up and stay vertical. 

When he keeps things simple, the rest will follow. 

Right now, Mike Phillips is averaging a double-double of 11.0 points, 12.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.7 steals, and a block through six games. He will likely join teammate Kevin Quiambao in the Mythical Five at the end of Season 87, but a greater prize lies ahead. For Phillips to get there, he will have to take things one step at a time, one play at a time.