EXPECT Ping Exciminiano to take more shots this coming conference following his move to Rain or Shine via trade during the offseason.
Known for being a defensive linchpin in his PBA career with Alaska, the former Far Eastern University guard said he has been given the green light by Rain or Shine coach Caloy Garcia to take more shots with the Elastopainters.
Exciminiano was taken by Rain or Shine in a deal that sent Maverick Ahanmisi to Alaska during the conference break, and he will make his Elastopainters debut on Friday in the Governors’ Cup opener against NorthPort.
The 30-year-old guard averaged just 3.4 points and shot 69-of-173 from the field in 50 games with the Aces in the 2017-2018 season.
“Actually, nagulat ako. Sabi nila dito, kapag hindi ka masydo tumitira, bangko ka. Imbis na sahod mo mag-increase, magdi-decrease pa," Exciminiano said. "‘Yung mindset ko, sobrang naiba dito. Pagdating sa court, ang ginagawa ko, iniisip ko muna ‘yung tira ko. Lumalakas kumpiyansa ko.”
Rain or Shine coach Caloy Garcia said Exciminiano has shored up the team's backcourt, where he will be tasked to take on a different role.
“He’s been good. He’s been a totally different player from how he was with Alaska. I like Ping so much, gumaganda ‘yung spot namin sa guards. Nagkakaroon ng challenges from other guards also,” said Garcia.
Despite his expanded role on offense, Exciminiano said he will still go all out on defense.
“Hindi mawawala ‘yun,” said the two-time All-Defensive Team member. “Thankful ako sa development na binigay ng Alaska sa akin. Kung hindi dahil doon, wala ako dito. I-aadopt ko ‘yun dito sa Rain or Shine. At the same time, iwowork ko ‘yung offense ko.”
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