Newcomer Pascual amazed by Abueva, Manuel’s relentless energy
Playing his first game for Alaska, Jake Pascual feels right at home with his new squad.
Though he only played a little less than five minutes and finished with two points and a rebound in Alaska’s 81-79 win over Meralco on Wednesday, the former San Beda star could only feel excitement over his future with the Aces.
“Di naman ako nage-expect. Sabi ko lang kay coach, kapag ginamit nya ako, all out lang ako. Kung ano ang kailangan ng team, gagawin ko para makatulong ako para manalo,” he said.
Pascual was traded to Alaska from Star last week and he admits he’s still feeling his way with the new environment.
“Naninibago pa ako sa system nila and until now, naga-adjust pa ako. Sinubukan ako ipasok ni coach kanina para makita kung paano ako magre-react,” he said. “Honestly, nagugulat pa ako sa kung anong gagawin, pero may pattern na binigay sa akin si coach para matutunan system nila. Sabi naman nya, time lang ang kailangan para maka-cope ako.”
But if there’s one thing sitting on Alaska’s bench made him realize, it’s that once your number is called, you have to provide the same energy as everyone on the floor.
“Nakaupo lang ako sa bench pero parang gusto kong pumasok para matulungan din sila. Ang saya ng laro pag ganoon yung game tapos makikita mo yung mga teammates mo nagpapakamatay sa bola, pati sa mga 50-50 balls, nagda-dive sila,” he said.
Pascual could also attest to how Calvin Abueva and Vic Manuel’s tireless efforts can easily rub off on the entire team.
“Mahihiya ka na lang sa sarili mo pag di ka naglaro ng 100-percent. Nakikita ko sila as a good examples kasi sa practice, pinapakita pa rin nila eh.”
Pascual said he’s willing to bide his time until he get his break with the Aces. And when that time comes, he assure Compton that he will give nothing but his best effort for the Aces.
“Hindi ko naman makukuha yan overnight eh. Kailangan ko pa ng kaunting time, pero gagawin ko lahat ng makakaya ko para sa team,” he said.
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