PAUL Harris vividly remembers Talk `N Text’s ouster in the quarterfinals of the PBA Governors Cup two years with him as import.
The sad experience is definitely a big motivation for the returning reinforcement to help the Tropang Texters end a two-year title drought in an import-spiced tournament.
“In my second year (2012 Governors Cup, we lost in the quarters. I remember that,” said Harris, who won a championship with the franchise in his first tour of duty in the league during the 2011 Commissioner’s Cup.
“Hopefully, we get right back to where we’re supposed to be.”
Harris made the first step towards that direction when he dropped 28 of his 37 points in the second half to steer the Tropang Texters to a clinical 97-82 beating of Globalport Friday night at the Astrodome.
The 6-foot-4 Harris blew to town early this week to replace Rodney Carney, who failed to make a lasting impression for Talk ‘N Text despite going 3-0 in his three games with the team.
With no less than a championship as its goal, Talk ‘N Text coach Norman Black said the team made the quick decision to bring Harris back in the hope of going deep into the playoffs of the season-ending meet.
Harris knows winning another championship is not easy, but after playing alongside veteran local players led by Ranidel de Ocampo and Jason Castro in his return, the 27-year-old former Syracuse standout believes the task is achievable.
“I know Jimmy, I know Jason, and I know the guys, Ranidel, Kelly and Harvey, so it’s not that hard (to adjust). I try to keep it as simple as possible,” said Harris, who is coming of a stint with the SLUC Nancy Basket in the French league.
“I know this team have great local players. I’m just trying to fit in, try to pass the ball, and find our shooters and try to play defense and grab rebounds,” he added.
Talk ‘N Text returns to action next Tuesday and will try to formalize its entry into the playoffs with a victory against Barako Bull.
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