PHYSICAL GAME GETS THIS ROOKIE GOING
For Kevin Alas, scoring his first semifinal win in the PBA means more than his late game outburst.
“I’m very happy dito sa panalo kasi last time na-sweep kami,” he said, recollecting the Philippine Cup semis series Talk ‘N Text had against San Miguel. “But at the same time, we can’t be satisfied.”
Recounting the reminders given by coach Jong Uichico in the heels of the Tropang Texters’ series-tying 93-77 Game 2 victory, Alas said, “One win doesn’t win the series. We have to be ready tomorrow sa practice and make the necessary adjustments for Game 3.”
With the game getting heated midway in the payoff period, the rookie went bonkers and ignited Talk ‘N Text’s 9-0 run to turn a 67-70 deficit to a 76-70 lead. The Texters never looked back after that.
TNT’s prized rookie said, “Siguro na-motivate din ako nung pinipisikal ako. Gusto ko ma-shoot yung mga tira para matingnan ko sila. Pero part of the game naman yung physicality eh.”
The second pick in the 2014 Draft said that the mindset instilled by Uichico has been a big factor in his best game this conference.
“Sanay na ako sa gantong pisikalan kasi since college at pati na rin sa Gilas, naglalaro rin ako ng ganito. Kailangan ko lang maging ready pag binunot sa end game at kailangan ko magperform.”
With the series now tied at 1-1, Alas hopes that this breakthrough semis win for him won’t be his last, saying, “Hopefully, manalo ulit kami. We have to be ready kasi Purefoods yan eh.”
Game 3 of their best-of-five series is on Thursday. (RL)
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