JERON Teng of Flying V became the fourth player in PBA D-League history to notch a triple-double after earning the feat on Monday in their Foundation Cup match against AMA Online Education.
The former La Salle star contributed 21 points, 11 rebounds, and 13 assists as Flying V walloped AMA, 114-91, on Monday at the Ynares Sports Arena. He joined the ranks of Bobby Ray Parks, Mike Tolomia (twice), and Kent Salado as the only players to hit the triple-double mark.
Flying V head coach Eric Altamirano said he spoke to Teng before the game where he emphasized the need to improve on other aspects of his game.
"Jeron has nothing to prove in terms of scoring," said Altamirano. "Coming into the PBA, it's really good for him na makita na multi-dimensional siya. He can do other things aside from scoring."
"Tonight, he showed that he can also be a Lonzo Ball," said Altamirano, referring to the Los Angeles Lakers rookie who made a triple-double in an NBA Summer League recently.
Teng understands Altamirano's instructions as he looks to expand his game when he enters the pro ranks.
"For this game, I talked to coach Eric. He talked to me and he told me na it would be better, dahil I'm turning pro this year, to add dimension to the game, 'yung sa defense ko, getting those rebounds. It's a continuous learning experience for me and I just try to get better each day," said Teng.
[See Unbeaten Flying V books first spot in Foundation Cup semis with easy win over AMA]
Teng's triple-double effort came after he struggled on the field as he shot just 7-of-24 from the field. He lauded his former team AMA for forcing him to miss shots.
"Si coach Mark (Herrera), kahit school-based ang AMA, you can expect them to fight because coach Mark, he encourages players to really perform at their best. They did a pretty good job especially in the first half," said Teng.