JUAMI Tiongson is off to a good start with new team with Columbian in the PBA Governors’ Cup.
Tiongson scored 11 points, grabbed four rebounds, and made four assists in the Dyip’s victory over Alaska last Friday. Two days later he finished with 10 points, four rebounds, and two assists in a loss to Rain or Shine.
Those are impressive numbers, especially from a player who wasn't exactly thrilled to join Columbian after growing comfortable being with NLEX.
“Bitter siyempre I was comfortable na with NLEX and built a relationship with them," said the 28-year-old guard. "Sweet because it’s a new team, fresh start, and good start naman kami."
Tiongson said he has already made the adjustments after he was traded during the offseason from NLEX to NorthPort before wounding up with his current team.
“Surprisingly, nagulat ako kasi mabilis ‘yung adjustment,” said Tiongson. “Mabait ang mga coaches, teammates ko. Sobrang winelcome nila ako. Malaking factor na bata ‘yung team. Madali to get along with them. Thankful ako.”
Columbian coach Johnedel Cardel said the presence of Tiongson added depth to the team's guard rotation, allowing Rashawn McCarthy to move to shooting guard.
“There’s Juami and (JP) Calvo who could pass the ball. The last time, wala kami masyadong point guards. It was Rashawn McCarthy bringing down the ball. We came up short the last time, na-out kami. Hopefully, this time, we have two point guards," said Cardel.
While thankful for the trust, Tiongson feels he still has a lot to improve on especially on the offensive side to live up to Cardel's expectatations.
“Marami pang improvements na kailangan lalo na sa mga finishes ko towards the end, missed layups ko,” said Tiongson.
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