NO heartfelt words, no lonely goodbyes.
That’s how Jerrick Balanza describes his parting of ways with coach Aldin Ayo and the rest of the Converge FiberXers following his trade to Magnolia.
Although admitting he was taken aback by the sudden development, Balanza said he took it like how professional players should handle a trade deal.
“Hindi ko rin naman akalain, e. Pero tinanim ko na agad sa isip ko na ganun talaga kapag professional ka. Hindi mo na kailangan damdamin ng matagal, siyempre next step agad kung ano ang gagawin mo,” said Balanza on Sunday when he played his first game with his new team during the PBA Philippine Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
“Hindi na ako nag-mukmok pa kaya nga professional tayo, di ba.”
The 27-year-old Balanza said he did get a chance to talk to Ayo following the trade, but no lengthy justification was given on why he’s being shipped to another team.
Ayo and Balanza of course, go a long way back as they won an NCAA men’s basketball championship together at Letran.
Many even believe Balanza’s transfer to Converge following a trade with Northport for Allyn Bulanadi had the blessings of Ayo to make way for their reunion at the pro level.
Balanza however, said his farewell talk with Ayo was very brief.
“Pag trade sa akin, nag-usap kami ni coach Aldin pero sandali, nag-good luck lang. That’s it, sabi niya, Kita-kita na lang tayo sa court,” he recalled of his conversation with his college coach.
“Wala nang mahabang usap. Ganun din, professional na usap lang din. Parang coach and player lang din.”
Balanza finished with two points and played for almost 15 minutes in his debut game for Magnolia in a 103-97 win.
He said it was just a satisfying feeling playing again on the court.
“OK naman yung feel ko. First time ko lang kasi ulit nakalaro. Hindi naman sa pag-aano, medyo hindi tayo nakakalaro sa kabila,” said Balanza.
“Sabi ko lang kay coach Chito (Victolero), maglalaro ako in my best way na alam ko.”
Balanza said he’s ready to embrace his new team and his new role.
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