PROTECTING THE CROWN
After a woeful Philippine Cup campaign, Alaska’s enigmatic sophomore Calvin Abueva seemed to get his bearings back just in time for the Aces’ title defense of the Commissioner’s Cup.
The Kapampangan had a double-double of 16 points and 14 boards in just 22 minutes of play, but his efforts went for naught as Talk ‘N Text clipped Alaska, 85-72, on Wednesday behind import Richard Howell, who had 15 points and 30 rebounds, 10 coming from the offensive glass.
“Lucky day ko lang siguro ngayon, kaso di kami pinalad manalo. Bawi na lang kami sa next game,” Abueva said.
With Howell crashing the boards for the Tropang Texters, Alaska was dealt with a huge disparity in the rebounding battle, losing to Talk ‘N Text, 47-64.
“Siguro kulang kami sa box out kaya nangyari yun. Nung sa Cebu, parang slow pa siya (Howell), pero ngayon grabe yung rebounds nya,” Said Abueva, looking back to their previous encounter with Talk ‘N Text in a pocket tournament a week ago. “Kulang pa rin kami sa bilis kaya kailangan mag-double effort kami.”
Though it might seem that the entry of bigger imports could have rejuvenated Abueva’s competitive fire, last year’s Rookie of the Year just hopes that he can continue his good start for this season, as well as retain the Commissioner’s Cup title.
“Etong first game ko, nag-double-double ako. Kaya sa mga susunod na games, mas gagawin ko pang agresibo yung paglalaro ko. Andun na yung physicality pero mas kailangan yung focus,” he said.
“Ito yung crown namin. Kailangan naming protektahan to. Kailangan naming bumawi sa next game.” (RL)
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.
