ANTIPOLO - Jason Brickman quickly showed why he is indeed a first-round talent after a poor start to his PBA career.
The highly-touted Meralco rookie did it all in their 93-86 win over Phoenix Super LPG when he had 16 points, seven rebounds, and five assists - numbers that were expected from the 34-year-old who spent most of his professional career in Europe and Asia before playing in the PBA.
With the help of Brickman, the Bolts are now 2-0 to start the 50th Season Commissioner's Cup.
READ: Meralco stays unbeaten as hot-starting Phoenix runs out of gas
The No. 8 in the Season 50 draft atoned for his Wednesday's outing against Converge where he shot only 1-of-9 from the field, finishing with only three points though he was still able to contribute five assists and two rebounds in that game.
Brickman, the third oldest rookie in PBA history behind Manny Pacquiao and Maurice Shaw, described his first game as a rough one as he was also dealing with a groin injury.
“Great start to the season, 2-0,” said Brickman. “I think we have a really good team. We wanted to get off to a good start so I'm just excited to be here.”
“Had a rough first game, but I was ready. Looking forward to this game, to bounce back, and I'm glad we came out with a win,” he added.
Meralco coach Luigi Trillo said Brickman's play is a testament as to why the Bolts chose him in the draft and was willing to wait for him to finish his commitments with Abra in the MPBL before playing in the PBA.
“I've always been a fan of J,” said Trillo.
“I've seen him play overseas. People don't know but that first game, it's not fair to him because he's got some injuries. He had a groin pull. Days leading up to our first game, he hadn't played. He had like maybe one practice so that's not good. But we know what his caliber is, and he showed it today.”
Despite his shooting woes, Trillo said Brickman helped Meralco move the ball better, resulting into open shots for his teammates.
“We have no doubt that he has been infectious with us. First game of the season, we had 26 assists, and that's because of him. Once he starts moving the ball, everybody starts passing the ball,” said Trillo.
Brickman said he was eager to bounce back from his shooting slump. On Saturday, he ended up shooting 7-of-12 from the field.
“I just think I missed some tough shots,” said Brickman. “I think, as coach said, I'm dealing with a groin injury, but I'm eager to play.”
Brickman said he is still not 100 percent, but sees that he will be close to it as Meralco gets several days before facing Rain or Shine on Friday.
“I don’t want to miss games. I know all the games are important. The regular season is very important to get a good spot for the playoffs so I don’t want to miss any games.”
On the injury, Brickman said: “It's getting better. Doing treatment. I think we have some days off so I can get some more treatment. Hopefully, it will be okay.”
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