Filipina basketball star Jack Animam heaved a sigh of relief after an impressive stint with Shih Hsin University (SHU) in the University Basketball Association (UBA) in Taiwan.
Animam, 22, took to social media her much-needed breather as she led SHU, undefeated in 18 games, en route to the crown.
This as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc globally and in the Philippines, where a new record-high of 8,019 cases struck on Monday, March 22.
"A year ago, everything seems to be in limbo. I didn't know if I should continue doing my twice a day workout routine, or just sit down on my couch and wait out this whole pandemic. I'm glad I did not choose the latter and did not give up on this dream," wrote the former National University Lady Bulldogs standout, who, in her UAAP years, had hauled several major awards including six titles.
"The moment I step my foot here everything just seem surreal. Finally! Also in that moment I promise not to take this opportunity for granted. I will give my all and will do anything for that trophy."
Animam, also a mainstay for Gilas Pilipinas Women, admitted that the past five months have been a rollercoaster ride of emotions, citing several struggles physically, mentally and emotionally.
But the 6-foot-5 Filipina baller has kept her goals intact in these trying times: "The goal is to be better than yesterday, the goal is to be champion again."
She did not disappoint as the Philippine wunderkind averaged 17.1 points, 2.6 steals, and 1.9 blocks and led the league in rebounds with 14.1.
Animam's feats came along coincidentally in celebration of Women's Month, continuing the post with appreciation and gratefulness to God, family and friends and the SHU community.