BUILDING the big men's confidence will be the main focus of Jeff Napa as he tries to weave his magic, this time with NorthPort in the PBA.
"Kailangang mabuo yung kumpyansa nung ibang bigs. Yun naman ang importante sa mga big man," said the Letran Knights mentor after being hired by NorthPort to join coach Pido Jarencio's staff.
Just like in his past endeavors, Napa is expected to work with the Batang Pier's frontcourt which features Mo Tautuaa, Sean Anthony, Bradwyn Guinto, and sophomores Joseph Gabayni and Lervin Flores as the team eyes a better outing in the 2019 season.
Though NorthPort isn't as big as the other squads in the PBA, it is hoping that Napa's infusion will be a huge shot in the arm for the development of its big men considering his track record in the amateurs.
Regarded as a "big man whisperer," Napa has been huge in making the careers of Justine Baltazar and Mark Dyke in their time together with the NU Bullpups in the UAAP juniors division, as well as his current Letran stalwarts Larry Muyang, Christian Fajarito, and Jeo Ambohot in the NCAA.
It's yet to be seen, though, if Napa's handiwork can have the same effect in the pro league.
However, the 38-year-old bench tactician is just grateful for his current career breakthrough, his first in the PBA.
"Nagpapasalamat lang ako sa NorthPort sa tiwala nila sa akin, kay boss Erick (Arejola), coach Bonnie (Tan), boss Waiyip (Chong), at coach Pido, at syempre sa Letran," said Napa..
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