JUSTIN Chua is a welcome addition to San Miguel Beer.
So said Blackwater Sports coach Leo Isaac, who saw Chua transform from an unheralded back-up center at Ateneo into a first-round pick during his time with the PBA D-League club.
Chua's move to San Miguel Beer from GlobalPort in exchange for Yousef Taha, which was approved by the league on Tuesday, gives the Beermen a uniquely talented big man who can bolster their frontline, Isaac said.
“Given the needed break, I am sure Justin can give San Miguel quality minutes,” said Isaac. “Matapang ang bata na 'yan. May shooting, may hustle. Saka mataas ang basketball IQ.
"Panalo ang San Miguel sa pagkuha nila dyan.”
Isaac said Chua's infectious energy and nice touch from the outside will bring an added dimension to San Miguel's frontline, which relies a lot on June Mar Fajardo and Doug Kramer.
Chua has also won titles with Chiang Kai Shek (high school), Ateneo (college) and Blackwater Sports (D-League) during his career.
“Malaking bagay yung puso na ipinapakita ni Justin kada laro, isa 'yun sa nakikita ko kung bakit may championship pedigree siya. I hope siya ang isang player na hinihintay ng San Miguel,” Isaac said.
“'Yun pa ang maganda sa bata na 'yan. May dalawang swerte. Laging nag cha-champion ang teams niya,” he added. “Saka magaling makisama. Very coachable pa.”
Asked how Chua will fit in at San Miguel, Isaac said: “Magkakalugar si Justin dyan. Although, I still have to see him play there (San Miguel), pero tiwala ako magco-contribute at magco-contribute 'yan.
"He is an intelligent player, sabi ko nga.”
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