BLACKWATER believes its acquisition of Mike Tolomia and KG Canaleta will be a boost to the Elite as they hope to put an end to their struggles in the PBA Governors’ Cup.
The Elite pulled off a trade a few days ago, obtaining Tolomia and Canaleta to Meralco for Allein Maliksi, Raymar Jose, and two future second round draft picks.
Blackwater coach Aris Dimaunahan said the team made the trade in order to fill their need for a slasher in Tolomia and a versatile player in Canaleta.
“Personally, I always believe in KG’s game. I always believe na si KG, may advantage sa liga natin sa tagal na niya naglalaro dito. The guy can play down low and can shoot from beyond the arc which is pinakita niya kanina.
“With Mike Tolomia, I always believe na that guy can make an impact sa liga. Kailangan lang niya ng exposure kasi the guy could create offense, could create shots not only for himself but for his teammates as well,” said Dimaunahan.
Of the two, Canaleta had the biggest game against Alaska, scoring 18 points and a perfect 5-of-5 from threes. Tolomia, meanwhile, scored two points in 14 minutes of play in the Elite’s 101-91 loss to the Aces.
Dimaunahan said they are patient to the two new players since they only attended practice with the Elite on Friday.
“Adjustment period pa rin. Kahapon lang sila umattend ng practice. We will give them and us time to really know each other that quickly. Sadly, hindi namin nakuha ‘yung panalo na hinahanap namin,” said Dimaunahan.
With time, Dimaunahan is confident the two will make an impact as the Elite look to salvage their campaign in the Governors’ Cup.
“Wala kaming gaanong slasher ngayon so added weapon si Mike kapag nag-settle down na siya sa sistema. Nakita din natin si KG playing the three and four spot which was effective tonight. ‘Yun lang, sobrang lalim ‘yung 26 points na hinabol namin,” he added.
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