MISSION ACCOMPLISHED FOR MR. EVERYTHING
Undersized, but not overwhelmed.
Marqus Blakely wrapped up his stint with Purefoods Star in the Commissioner’s Cup Friday night with another victory, this time a 98-86 thumping of Blackwater.
“That’s what I came here for, to get many wins as I could,” the 6-foot-4 reinforcement said.
In leading the Hotshots to three wins in as many outings, Blakely averaged 22.0 points, 14.3 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 3.7 steals, and 2.7 blocks per game.
Proving that he really is Mr. Everything, the New Jersey native had 23 points, 13 rebounds, four assists, three steals, and a block in the win over the Elite, keeping Purefoods on top of the standings alongside Meralco at 3-0 before Daniel Orton enters the fray.
“As a team, I think we established ourselves a little bit back to what we we’re known for, winning championships and back to the top of the mountain,” Blakely said. “It’s a culture that starts in practice and carries over to the games.”
No one could have noticed that in the three games for Purefoods, Blakely was nursing a dislocated shoulder. But just as what he told the incoming Orton, “You just got to play through it.”
“Just be a leader. As the import, you got to be the level-headed one out there. It’s not just actions, but words too. That’s why it’s important for us to get him on board as fast as we can because the longer he can put himself in, the better he can get used to the offense and the defense, be vocal, and be a quarterback out there.”
Blakely also expressed his confidence on the 24-year-old banger, saying, “He’s a smart guy. He can pick up our offense pretty quick. He’ll be fine. He’s a physical, much bigger post man. It will take a little getting used to it, but he’ll be fine.”
And he draws that from the experience of his teammates.
“It’s the experience of the team. I’ve been back here four times, and I know my teammates now. Through practice and being there helps him and in that way, he’ll figure it out,” he said.
As for his own future with the Hotshots, Blakely assured the fans that he will indeed see action again come the third conference.
“I’ll be back, for sure.” (RL)
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