GELO Alolino sees his move to Blackwater as a fresh start after a two-year stint with Phoenix that of late was plagued by injuries.
Alolino signed a one-year deal with Blackwater just a few days after he was released by Phoenix, where he sat out the first two conferences last season due to an ankle injury and bone spurs in his foot.
“Siyempre excited ako dito,” said Alolino, who started practicing with Blackwater on Monday before immediately plunging into action in a tune-up game against San Miguel on Tuesday. “Masaya din siyempre na-welcome ako ng Blackwater.”
“Nagko-cope pa ako. Sabi naman ni coach sa akin, tingnan ko lagi ‘yung ginagawa nila at maa-adopt ko agad.Siyempre sabi ko, 'Coach, hanggang makakahabol ako, gagawin ko lahat para makahabol ako,'” he added.
The former National University standout said he is determined to bounce back after a season that saw him play just 19 games and post averages of 6.05 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.3 assists.
He'll get his chance at Blackwater, assured head coach Bong Ramos.
“I take it as a new start for me. Almost two conferences din ako nawala dahil sa injury. And then, last conference, nakabalik ako pero in and out kasi kalagitnaan na ng conference. Sa akin, it’s anew opportunity sa new team,” said Alolino.
Alolino said he is determined to step up for Blackwater especially after the Elite lost Poy Erram, Paul Zamar, and Nard Pinto to separate trades.
“There are always new guys like kami and the rookies. Kami, everyday nagpapractice, tinitignan namin kung paano namin ma-cover ‘yung mga nawala. Sabi naman ni coach, ceiling lang ang kulang namin pero sa iba, magagawan namin ng paraan sa practice."
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