KURT Reyson is playing a larger role at Meralco with Chris Banchero out of the Bolts' first few games due to a hamstring injury.
So far, so good for the rookie Reyson.
After starting for the Bolts in their PBA Philippine Cup debut against Converge last Friday, the rookie came off the bench to chip in 16 points, two rebounds, three assists, and two steals in Meralco’s 118-80 victory over Terrafirma.
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The splendid performance came as a fitting follow-up to his big game on Fridayw here played for 12 minutes and 25 seconds as a starter and had eight points on 3-of-5 shooting in the Bolts’ 91-89 win over the FiberXers.
Meralco coach Luigi Trillo said Reyson, drafted in the second round at No. 23 overall, has been playing well especially during the tune-up games in the build-up to the Philippine Cup.
“He’s proven in the preseason, we’ve used him with guys injured and he’s been solid,” said Trillo. “Alam natin sa MPBL, he led the team to the championship and in Letran, he’s also been there. But for him, it’s understanding the league."
Trillo believes the 5-foot-9 Reyson has what it takes to become an even better player in the PBA with the skill set he already possesses.
“We have guys to go to. We have these practices were we know that the ball should be in the hand of certain guys. Sometimes, he tries to always make the play. There’s a lot of improvement for him.
“Matapang ‘yung bata. He can run the team. We need him loud. We need him calling plays. We need them more in your face. Maraming potential si Kurt. He will be big in the PBA. I have no doubt. Just a matter of time,” said Trillo.
More than the skills, Chris Newsome likes the attitude of Reyson in practice and games.
“The thing I love about Kurt is he is a willing learner,” Newsome said. “He comes to practice and he asks questions. He comes to practice and he comes up to me and says, ‘Kuya, what do we do here?’ And that’s something that you can admire from younger guys that want to continue to learn.”
“Another thing I admire is the kid is fearless. He really has no fear of taking a big shot or stepping up to a big moment. Now it’s just getting him to mature a little bit, but he's going to have a bright future ahead of him,” said Newsome.
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