BRIAN Heruela made sure to contribute immediately upon his return from injury in Game 4 of the PBA 49th Season Philippine Cup semifinals.
Heruela started in Wednesday’s contest where he delivered on defense by producing four steals. He also had two points, three rebounds, and four assists in TNT’s 108-92 win over Rain or Shine.
Of all the TNT players in the win, Heruela gained the highest +/- (difference between the points scored and points against while a certain player is on the floor) at +20.
READ: TNT one win away from another PBA Finals after win over RoS
“Just trying to bring the energy on the defensive side and trying to run the right plays for us to give ourselves a chance,” said Heruela. “So thank God that we won.”
Wednesday was his first appearance since the first game of the quarterfinals against Magnolia where he played for 11 minutes and 59 seconds and produced five points, three rebounds, and one assist before he rolled his ankle.
TNT eventually overcame a twice-to-win disadvantage to oust Magnolia.
“It was a do-or-die for us so I was kind of frustrated because I wasn’t going to be able to help my team,’ said Heruela.
The TNT veteran guard said he is still bothered by the ankle sprain, but felt good enough to give it a go for Game 4 especially with the spate of injuries that his team has.
“I am,” said the 36-year-old Heruela, when asked if he is still dealing with the injury. “But the adrenaline started kicking in. But it’s better now. It’s way better than a couple of weeks ago. I’m so grateful for that.”
Now that he has returned, the seven-time PBA champion is expected to gain more minutes with Jayson Castro and Rey Nambatac already out for the season.
“Those are very important players for us,” Heruela said of Castro and Nambatac. “They're key players for us. So it was very unfortunate that we don't have them here. But their presence alone in the bench, helping us directing what they see in there is a big help for all of us.”
Even with his contributions, Heruela said he wants to share the credit with all of his teammates who also chipped in including the likes of second stringers Henry Galinato Jr., Kim Aurin, and Almond Vosotros.
“Everybody, all the guys, it was a collective effort for all of us,” said Heruela. “And that’s what it takes because Rain or Shine is a very tough team. And were just going to match their energy and give ourselves a chance.”
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