ANTIPOLO – Import Ivan Aska downplayed his altercation with San Miguel teammate Terrence Romeo late in their PBA Commissioner’s Cup game against TNT, labelling it as just an argument between two competitive players.
“At the end of the day, it’s just the heat of the game. Even off the court, I gave him a hug, I love him like a brother,” said Aska of Romeo following the Beermen’s 98-93 come-from-behind win at the Ynares Center.
MISCOMMUNICATION LEADS TO ARGUMENT
The incident happened at the 7:26 mark of the fourth quarter after a miscommunication between the two led to an Aska turnover, resulting in a driving lay-up by Rondae Hollis-Jefferson for an 80-78 TNT lead.
After San Miguel sued for time, Aska and Romeo were seen engaging in a heated argument heading to the bench.
But Romeo also dismissed the incident, saying he and Aska just wanted to score the basket as the Beermen were trying to make a push after trailing by as many as 10 points earlier.
“Normal lang na magkaroon ng ganung argument kasi pareho namin gustong maka-score,” said the veteran guard. “Mas gusto ko na yun kaysa walang gustong tumira ng bola.”
All things were set aside shortly after as Aska and the rest of the Beermen got the job done by pulling off their second straight win and improving the team record at 5-3 for a share of fourth to fifth places with Northport.
ASKA DELIVERS
Playing his final game for San Miguel, Aska had seven of his 25 points in the final quarter to help the team complete the comeback win, while Romeo added 14 points including six in the fourth period.
“All good kami, walang problema,” said Romeo. “Sabi ko nga kay Ivan pagkatapos nung huddle, nag thank you ako sa kanya. Thank you Ivan for helping us.”
The feeling was mutual as far as Aska is concerned.
“At the end of the day, I told him our goal is the same,” said the import. “Really, he’s a good person.”
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