THE presence of Josh Smith is making life easier for TNT.
That’s how Anthony Semerad feels, saying having Smith around for the KaTropa as import has been helping the locals get open looks on offense.
“He is just big. He is worth three men right there so I guess when we throw it in, everybody collapses, and he is good at kickouts so we have to be ready for that,” said Semerad.
Semerad has been one of the recipients of Smith’s presence, particularly on Sunday against NLEX.
The former San Beda cager had 22 points, converting six of his nine three-point attempts to help the KaTropa beat the Road Warriors, 117-106, on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
“I guess it’s just my teammates moving the ball, I was on the right spot, and I’m playing the four now as well. (I’m playing) three and four. There are open gaps,” said Semerad.
Aside from Smith’s effect, Semerad said he has also been comfortable playing the power forward spot, as shown in his performance for TNT in Sunday’s match against NLEX.
He has no complaints in his new role.
Semerad said he needed some time to adjust to playing at the four spot, but eventually saw the importance for the team that he spend some time at the power forward position.
“At first, I have to get used to it but in practices and scrimmages, I’ve been playing a lot so I guess I’m getting used to it and the different positioning. It’s okay, I like it,” he said.
“I guess I just need to be open to play any position. We are filled with guards right now so it’s good to spread it out and have extra weapons,” Semerad said.
With the victory, TNT moved once again into a tie for first place with Rain or Shine with a 6-1 record but Semerad said the KaTropa have no reasons to be complacent.
“We can’t get comfortable. We have to keep coming in practice and just train hard and keep working. It’s still a long way to go. Sana we can keep on winning and keep playing hard,” Semerad said.
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