‘He plays like a cow’: Mendoza works his way into Compton’s rotation
Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Alaska coach Alex Compton has only praises for Jaypee Mendoza.
The youthful big man of the Aces has been dishing out consistent effort every time he gets the chance to play and, as Compton puts it, doing great job holding his ground against much taller opponents in the on-going PBA Philippine Cup.
“Jaypee plays like a cow. He’s just relentless. He throws his body up there against much bigger guys. He has no fear. ” said the American coach after Alaska escaped past Star in overtime,97-90, on Wednesday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
For his commendable work, the Tarlac native earned a spot in Compton’s rotation.
“He was a practice player last year who has come in and become a significant part of our rotation,” Compton said of Mendoza, the Aces’ 21st pick in the 2015 rookie draft.
He didn’t make it to the roster that year but his unwavering determination and hardwork as a practice player prompted Compton to sign him this season.
Mendoza said he’s grateful to his coach and teammates for their support and vows to make the most of every opportunity given to him.
“Thankful ako kay coach (Compton) at sa mga teammates ko. Grabe ang suportang binibigay nila sa akin kaya sinusuklian ko lang 100 percent na effort everytime I get the chance to play,” Mendoza said. Onofre John Andres
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