KEVIN Murphy’s brilliant debut for San Miguel Beer went down the drain as the Beermen got ambushed by Magnolia Hotshots, 109-108, in the PBA Governors Cup Sunday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Murphy exploded for 37 points including 18 in the first quarter, but the team failed to hang on and watched the Hotshots went on a closing 5-0 run inside the final 60 seconds to steal what would have been a won game for them.
Although very much satisfied with the way he played in his first game on Philippine soil, Murphy would rather take the victory than glow over his personal stats.
“I just wish we could have come out with a victory, that’s all I’m really worried about,” said the 28-year-old former Utah Jazz, who replaced the injured AZ Reid.
“I’m all about victory, I’m all about winning.”
Murphy went 13-of-25 from the field and had 10 rebounds, and seven assists, although the numbers were not enough to prevent San Miguel from losing a second straight game and fall 2-3 in the standings.
But there lies sunshine in the horizon.
Murphy pointed out the expected return of four-time MVP June Mar Fajardo from sick bay by the end of October is something he and the Beermen are all looking forward to.
“He’s been the MVP the past four (seasons), so obviously that’s the big part we’re missing,” said the import. “But when he comes back, it’s like everybody else would be a well-oiled machine.”
For now, the rest of the Beermen will have to hold the fort in Fajardo's absence.
With San Miguel scheduled to play almost a week from now, Murphy still has enough time to learn the team system and get settle down.
But he knows how crucial the team’s next six games will be starting against Alaska on Saturday in its bid to make it to the playoffs.
“I’m adjusting well, I believe. Without asking me to do, I’m doing it. As far as the team, we’re all trying to get together fine, what he should do best, and stuff like that,” said Murphy.
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