JAVEE Mocon is glad to be competing once again in the semifinals, this time with Phoenix Super LPG.
Mocon is playing in the semifinals for the first time with the Fuel Masters since he was traded to the team in 2022 by Rain or Shine in exchange for Nick Demusis and a rookie draft pick.
During his time with Rain or Shine, Mocon had an auspicious rookie year in 2019 where the team reached the semifinals of both the Philippine Cup and the Commissioner’s Cup.
Mocon: Reaching semis is tough
Mocon said he appreciates playing in the semifinals now more than ever, having realized how difficult it is to reach that level on a consistent basis.
“When I was at Rain or Shine on my first year, I had two semifinals agad. I thought it was going to come easy. Hindi pala,” said Mocon, who had a successful college career winning four NCAA titles with San Beda.
“Sobrang hirap. Sobrang hirap lalo na if you are an independent team. I’m really blessed and happy,” said Mocon.
Mocon is also happy that he is contributing to the success of Phoenix after dealing with injuries in past conferences. On Wednesday, Mocon had his best game offensively this conference with 14 points.
“I was a bit late. May mga tune-up games kami. I was missing tune-up games. I have to really focus sa tuhod ko at sa shoulder ko. Pero ngayon, nakakabalik na. And then ngayon, maganda pa nilalaro ng lahat,” said Mocon.
The 29-year-old said he also enjoys being around the young guys and veterans at Phoenix. Mocon said he is also looking to help the young guys in the team even with only five years of experience under his belt.
“I consider myself a vet na rin eh. Really good to see ‘yung energy ng mga bata and at the same time, ‘yung maturity that I see from RJ, RR, Jason Perkins. Nandoon na rin ako. I really have to guide them na rin."
Mocon cites collective effort
But Mocon emphasized that whatever Phoenix is enjoying right now, it’s because of the collaboration of the entire team.
It also helps that they have a very good import in Johnathan Williams.
“I think it’s a collective effort from the whole team. Everyone is chipping in. Everybody really needs to help,” said Mocon. “It really goes to show na kung gaano kagaling ‘yung import mo, ganun ka ka-deeper sa playoffs.
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