JUAMI Tiongson has nothing but praises for rookie teammate Stephen Holt, whose consistent showing so far helped Terrafirma get off to a fast start in the PBA Philippine Cup.
Tiongson described the year’s No. 1 overall pick as humble and unselfish considering he’s been playing as a pro worldwide for 10 years now and actually once played in the NBA G League with the Canton Charge.
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“Sobrang bait nitong si Stephen, sobrang bait na tao. Sobrang unselfish,” he said of the 32-year-old Fil-Am. “There are times na kailangan ko pa siyang i-remind na kailangan mong maging mas aggressive kasi pag aggressive ka, mas malakas tayo.”
So far, that has been the mindset of Holt early in the conference, where he’s been averaging 22 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 4.0 assists including a 17-7-4 stats line in the Dyip’s 99-95 win over NLEX Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Tiongson said his backcourt partnership with Holt is very smooth as shown in the Dyip’s second straight win opposite the Road Warriors where they combined for 38 points.
But for Holt, the feeling is mutual.
The rookie said Tiongson’s scoring ability allows him to do other things inside the court.
“It makes my job easier because now I can focus more on my defense, denying passing lanes, making it difficult for other guards,” said Holt.
“But yeah, I’ll pick my moments. I know when I have to score. I don’t have to be a facilitator, create for the other guys on this team,” he added.
“Tonight I was able to be efficient, getting to the basket, making some mid-range shots, and hopefully, I can knock down a few more threes. But for me, it’s all about winning, it’s what I’m here for and trying to help elevate this group.”
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