CHICAGO - Arguably the most high profile import in recent memory, Bol Bol is all the rage around the PBA.
Since his arrival in Manila last February 19, much of the 7-foot-3 former NBA player’s activities have been shrouded in mystery.
Until TNT Tropang 5G head coach Chot Reyes lifted the blinds and gave the PBA fans a vouyeristic look at the 44th overall pick of the 2019 NBA Draft.
“We are now on the third day of our training camp here. He”s still battling the effects of jeg lag.
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“ He still doesn’t have his legs under him but I’m surprised how coachable he is, how unassuming he is,” the 11-time PBA champion coach said.
Calling Bol “low maintenance ” despite his sterling credentials, Reyes was ecstatic about the apparently well-mannered Bol.
“Hindi mabigat sa team. Never late for practice. Never missed a meeting, so far I’m liking what I’m seeing.”
TOUGH COVER.
Bol shot 33.2 percent from 3 during his 202-game NBA stint, making him a nightmare match-up.
But Reyes is non-committal as to which position the 26-year son of the late Manute Bol will play.
“We’re still finding out how we can best utilize these talents.”
Bol will be too long for small forwards to guard, too quick for power forwards to contain, and too well-rounded for plodding traditional centers to deal with.
What a luxury to have.
Still, Reyes cautioned that “glowing credentials and solid NBA experience “ do not guarantee success and that the injured Rondae Hollis-Jefferson is still “the best import” and Justin Brownlee remains the “benchmark.”
SOFT SPOT?
The only potential Bol weakness is his wiry 220-pound frame which makes him susceptible to the physicality in the PBA.
To prepare him for the tough grind, Reyes has instructed his players to bump and be very rough on Bol.
Reyes said Bol grew up with “Filipino classmates,” and that he understands the Pinoys’ passion for hooping and the physical nature with which they play it.
While Bol has affinity for the Philippines, it’s not fierce enough to carry our flag as a naturalized player.
“ He is loyal to South Sudan,” coach Chot conceded.
Bummer.
Gilas missed out on some great Bol of fire.
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