A PART of Robert Bolick wants the distinction of the first-ever PBA player to make a four-point shot, but the NLEX star also said he won’t force the issue during games as the league introduces the contentious rule for the coming 49th season.
“Sana ako maka-shoot para history,” Bolick said in jest during an interview that was posted on the PBA’s social media accounts. “Dapat kami ‘yung first game para titira agad ako diyan, baka ako ‘yung una.”
Bolick made a name for himself in the four-point shot during the PBA All-Star Game in Bacolod City where he made the attempt while being fouled, resulting in a five-point play to force a 140-140 draw during the exhibition game last March 24.
For tying the match for Team Mark Barroca, Bolick got the distinction as the co-MVP in the All-Star Game for his heroics, sharing the award with Japeth Aguilar, the captain for his own squad.
But Bolick insisted he will not make an effort in taking the four-point shot during games, and will only attempt it in certain situations.
“Kapag naka-focus ka kasi doon, baka mawala naman laro mo,” said Bolick. “Sa practice, ineensayo ko na ‘yun. Oo, alam ko may four points pero hindi ko muna hinahanap.”
“Kapag nandoon ‘yung opportunity, kukunin ko. Pero kapag wala, hindi ko pipilitin,” Bolick said.
NLEX coach Jong Uichico also said they will not be actively looking for the four-point shot during games.
“If it comes, it comes, pero hindi namin hahanapin ‘yun. Pero ganun din naman ‘yung three points, dati hinahanap ‘yung three points. Ngayon, hinahanap na. I guess if you get mor range, you can start looking for a four-point play in time. Pero hindi pa siguro ngayon,” said Uichico.
The four-point shot was not exactly received positively not only be fans but also PBA coaches, who while willing to give the new rule a chance also have their own apprehensions.
Bolick is also one of those who is also excited to give the four-point shot a try.
“Mag-iiba na ‘yung laro. Excited ako. Tingnan natin kung ano mangyayari. It’s innovation. Ganun talaga kapag una, daming nagrereklamo. Pero hindi mo masasabi hangga’t hindi natin masusubukan. Tignan natin. For sure, magiging maganda ang effect nito. Magbabago talaga ‘yung laro at excited talaga ako,” said Bolick.
“It’s a good innovation.” said Uichico. “In my opinion, we need to give it a try. It’s something that we can look forward to. Let’s see if it will work or not. Since nandiyan na ‘yan sa PBA and we are going to implement it, let’s give it a try.”
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