Cielo Pagdulagan might be the next big thing for National University in the coming years after helping the Lady Bulldogs reclaim UAAP glory Sunday, Dec. 15.

The 20-year-old guard turned heads in her first-ever championship appearance, leading the Bulldogs to a 78-73 Game 3 win over the UST Golden Tigresses. She topscored with 21 points along with nine rebounds, three assists and three steals.

Despite showcasing her strengths in just her rookie year, Pagdulagan gave all the credit to her teammates and coaches for giving her the trust and confidence.

“Sobrang thankful din ako sa mga teammate ko lalo na sa mga seniors namin na talagang grabe ‘yong tiwala sakin kahit na rookie lang ako,” said Pagdulagan. “Lalo na mga coaches and managers, binibigyan nila ako ng 100 percent na tiwala.”

“Sobrang happy kasi, di naman sa lahat ng school mararamdaman mo ‘yan eh kasi syempre as a rookie may ibang magsasabi na ‘rookie lang ‘yan, wala pa ‘yan,” the BS Business Administration freshman student added.

The pride of Bulan, Sorsogon sparked NU’s run in the second half where they took a 64-49 advantage which was enough to build a good separation against the surging Tigresses in the fourth frame.

“I’m very happy din kasi ako na nabigay ko ‘yong best ko tsaka nasa mindset ko talaga na ngayong araw talaga, ibibigay ko ‘yong best ko,” Pagdulagan continued.

“And buti nag-work, kaya pasalamat talaga ako sa kanila, for giving me trust,” she added.

Pagdulagan, who also snared this year’s Rookie of the Year plum, vows to stay at NU.

“Talagang grateful po ako, pero talagang hanggang dulo po, gusto ko po mag-stay dito,” Pagdulagan continued.