MEMBERS of Alab Pilipinas, including its head coach, believe Saigon Heat’s Fil-American Joshua Munzon has what it takes to shine in the PBA someday.
Munzon turned heads in his first game in the Philippines over the weekend, scoring 20 points and adding four steals in the Heat’s 77-99 defeat against home team Alab in the Asean Basketball League (ABL).
The 22-year-old guard became an instant fan favorite at the Olivarez College gym in Paranaque City, where he was deluged with selfie requests from fans who stormed the court following the match.
Alab mainstay Lawrence Domingo, who played against Munzon in California, said his fellow Fil-American is capable of making quite an impact once he jumps to the PBA.
“I think he has a great game. He is great at shooting the ball and he is really streaky,” said Domingo, who nearly went to the same prep school as Munzon in the United States.
“I think he is a guy that you definitely have to watch out for and he is also half-Filipino. People should keep a good look at him,” Domingo added.
[See Munzon makes good first impression in Manila debut]
Even Alab Pilipinas coach Mac Cuan only had good things to say about the game of Munzon, especially on the defensive end.
“I love his game. I like his intensity, passion, and his commitment to playing defense. He has also improved his outside shot from the first few games I saw him, which will really help him a lot,” said Cuan.
Domingo actually got a taste of Munzon’s defensive abilities when the Heat's 6-foot-4 guard chased down the Alab forward for a block.
In one play, Munzon intercepted a pass by Alab and completed the play with a dunk.
“He is really pesky. He knows how to read the passing lanes and you can see it in the game. I think he is averaging two dunks off steals. So you have to commend the man like that,” said Domingo.
Domingo and Cuan said pro teams and scouts better keep an eye on the kid.
“I really think he can play professionally here and make an impact,” said Cuan.
[See Saigon coach believes Munzon 'destined to be in PBA']