PAUL Lee offered no excuses as he struggled for the first time in the series, which unsurprisingly led to a Star’s first loss in the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals against Ginebra.
Averaging 17.5 points per game in their first two victories, the ‘Lee-thal Weapon’ was limited to just seven points on 3-13 shooting from the field and he was quick to credit Ginebra’s stifling defense for his off-night.
"It's not my day. Di naman araw araw pasko," a somber Lee told reporters after Star lost to Ginebra, 73-62.
"It's not our day, it's not my day and credit that to Ginebra's defense," he added.
[See Sol Mercado saves the day for Ginebra]
Lee also pointed his struggles was due to the different defenders the Gin Kings sent his way—ranging from forwards Aljon Mariano and Kevin Ferrer, to burly guard Sol Mercado—that got him off his game.
"Hindi naman one guy yung nag-stop. The whole team talagang papahirapan ka. Iba ibang look ang bibigay niya sayo so I need to adjust to their defense," Lee continued.
The Hotshots' blistering offense also turned cold as they were limited to just 62 points, the lowest output in the last nine years according to PBA Chief statistician, Fidel Mangonon.
The pace of the game, according to Lee, is one huge issue that they need to address come Wednesday.
"We started slow. Masyado kaming sumabay sa gusto nila na mabagal lang yung laro. Titignan namin lahat yan sa viewing namin tomorrow," he said.
[See Lack of composure led to Star meltdown, says Victolero]
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