Aisha Bello glad to show her potential in rare extended playing time

MANILA, Philippines — Aisha Bello got to start and play in extended time in NU Lady Bulldogs' 25-8, 25-22, 25-12 win over the UE Lady Warriors in the UAAP Season 87 women's volleyball tournament at the PhilSports Arena on Wednesday.Rarely given playing time, the second year foreign student athlete made the most of her opportunity as she scored nine points in three sets.Bello, who hails from Nigeria, said she's happy to display her game especially after switching from middle blocker to opposite hitter position."I'm so happy. All thanks to my coaches and teammates for trusting me even though [opposite hitter] is not my position but I've been here for a long time now and trying to put in my effort. I'm happy to show what I am," said Bello.Despite rarely given playing time, the 23-year-old Bello said she stays ready through training."It's kind of hard but like my teammates always say, it's all about mindset. Even though I don't have playing time, behind here, I still play and practice," said Bello."It does not matter if I play here because everybody cannot play at the same time. For me, I put as much effort as I can during practice."Reigning MVP Bella Belen is glad that Bello got to show her capabilities as well as the other NU second stringers."I'm really happy they got the chance to show what they can do. Coach Sherwin [Meneses] always tells them that when they get the opportunity, they need to grab it because it doesn't come often. And, of course, the older players will eventually leave."