MANILA, Philippines — UP Fighting Maroons' Terrence Fortea is known for his streaky shooting since his high school days with the NU Bullpups handled by coach Goldwin Monteverde who is also his coach now at UP.

A number of factors made it hard for Fortea to shine in the UAAP seniors division especially in a talent-laden Fighting Maroons team this UAAP Season 87 men's basketball tournament.

Ever persistent, Fortea worked hard until his best game of the season yet came on October 13 when UP beat UST, 83-73, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The fourth year guard provided the scoring lift off the bench as he went 5-of-8 from the field including 4-of-5 from the three-point area.

Shooting an efficient 50 percent from beyond the arc this season (12-of-24), Fortea finished with 16 points on top of three assists and two rebounds in a +7 effort in less than 22 minutes of action.

Monteverde is proud that Fortea is turning the corner.

"Of course, I'm very happy and proud of Terrence. He was in-and-out in his first three seasons. He never had that rhythm that he should be getting but then I saw him work hard every practice," said Monteverde.

Fortea said he just trusts Monteverde and vice versa.

"I just trust coach. Coach Gold repays the trust you gave him. We just protect that trust in our team and our faith in the games."

The 5-foot-11 Fortea said he was just staying ready and exploiting the weakness in UST's defense.

"I was just being ready. As I've said, I just exploited the weakness of their defense. I didn't force anything. I just took whatever looks they gave me."