AFTER his rousing conference debut for NorthPort on Thursday, Robert Bolick will once again miss two games due to his stint with Gilas Pilipinas in the Fiba Basketball World Cup Asia qualifiers at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
The Batang Pier will play Magnolia next Thursday, February 24, and Phoenix Super LPG on February 26 at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, games that will coincide with the Gilas matches at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
NorthPort coach Pido Jarencio took the development in stride despite the Batang Pier needing more wins in order to get a shot at the quarterfinals.
“0-5, mabigat maka-recover. Sabi ko sa kanila, kapag 0-6 na, mahirap na. I think this is the time to start winning,” said Jarencio.
“Problema ko ngayon, may conflict kay Robert ngayon with Gilas… Siguro kukuha na lang kami ng ka-clone ni Robert. Papuputiin ko na lang si [Jerrick] Balanza,” Jarencio said in jest.
Bolick impresses
Bolick had an impressive all-around game on Thursday against Meralco, compiling 22 points, seven rebounds, six assists, and three steals in the 109-98 decision.
It was Bolick’s first game after signing with NorthPort last Saturday, ending the contract impasse between the two ballclubs.
Jarencio said the team and management support Bolick’s impending Gilas stint, and it is up to the other players to step up in the coming games.
“Siyempre national team tayo. Kapag wala, dito siya sa amin. Kaya medyo ‘yung conference natin, talagang maraming balakid, maraming issues na kailangang i-address,” said Jarencio.
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