GINEBRA may have found themselves a promising forward when they drafted John Abis 23rd in the 50th PBA draft.
Perpetual coach and Ginebra assistant Olsen Racela shared how Abis impressed coach Tim Cone during one of the practices of the Gin Kings where Abis displayed his ‘guard-like’ skills playing against pros in the team.
“Boy bulong lang ako sa mga dina-draft namin. Si coach Tim liked what he saw in practice,” said Racela. "Ang gusto niya is John's guard skills.”
While Abis pprimarily plays the power forward position in the NCAA with the Altas, Racela is confident that his skills will allow him to transition to play in the perimeter in the PBA.
Through six games with the Altas, Abis has showcased that versatility, averaging eight points, close to eight rebounds and three assists a game.
“He may play the four in the NCAA, but he has the potential to play the wing position in the pros. That's the beauty of yung skills ni John,” he said.
Ginebra can wait
A lifelong Ginebra fan, Abis was naturally thrilled when Racela brought him to one of the practices to train with the squad and show what he can exactly bring to the table.
But even with the fulfilling opportunity, Abis still has his eyes set on the season at hand, and making the most of his swan song with the Altas.
“Masaya naman. And thankful ako kasi nakapag-training ako. Pinagbigyan ako nilang Coach Olsen na makapagensayo sa kanila at makita yung mga magiging teammate,” he said.
“Hindi ko masyado na iniisip yung yung na-draft ako. Focus muna ako dito sa Perpetual. Focus muna ako sa present. And after nun, doon ka na iisipin kung ano yung pwede kong gawin.”
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