FRESH IMPORT, RETURNING BIG MAN GIVE BOOSTERS NEW HOPE
A versatile import. A returning healthy old reliable. A brand new conference.
For Petron Blaze coach Olsen Racela, it always gives a good feeling having a fresh start.
“We’re doing good. We’ve worked on our skills training and will start our five-on-five sessions by July. By that time, everyone should be on board,” Racela told pba.ph.
Petron Blaze has decided to acquire Elijah Millsap, younger brother of NBA veteran Paul Millsap of the Utah Jazz.
A versatile wingman, who can also play on both ends of the court, the younger Millsap will bring a new dimension to the game of the Boosters.
“He can play the wing positions, but he can also play the No. 4. What’s good about him is he is also a solid defender even at the post,” added Racela.
Listed at 6-foot-6 in the NBA D-League, Millsap averaged 17.2 points and 5.9 rebounds in 44 games with the LA D-Fenders.
But it’s not only Millsap that makes Racela excited for the team’s campaign.
Danny Ildefonso, the two-time Most Valuable Player and one of the best frontliners ever to don the San Miguel red-and-whites, will be returning to action after missing majority of the first two conferences because of a shoulder injury.
The departure of Jay Washington, traded to the GlobalPort Batang Pier recently, had opened up the No. 4 spot for Ildefonso, whom Racela believes will play a key role as he mans the power forward and center positions.
Racela said Ildefonso can either play alongside June Mar Fajardo or serve as reliever of the rookie 6-foot-10 center.
“What’s good about the set up of the team is the versatility in the frontline. We also have Arwind Santos as well as Jason Deutchman who are both capable of playing the No. 4 spot,” added Racela. (RJ)
Subscribe to INQUIRER PLUS to get access to The Philippine Daily Inquirer & other 70+ titles, share up to 5 gadgets, listen to the news, download as early as 4am & share articles on social media. Call 896 6000.
