VIC Manuel isn’t losing hope that Terrafirma will eventually nail a breakthrough win in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
The Dyip just needed a strong finishing kick as they always came short in the endgame, according to the veteran forward.
“Closeout talaga ang problema ng team namin. Pero good team yung amin. Kinakapos lang talaga,” said the 37-year-old Manuel.
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That was the case again for Terrafirma on Sunday when it had Rain or Shine on the ropes, but failed to hang on and dropped a 124-112 loss at the Philsports Arena.
The Dyip led by as many as 13 points in the opening half and were still on top 108-104 in the final seven minutes until they ran out of gas and went scoreless in a five-minute stretch to squander the game.
“Nandun na kami, e,” said Manuel, who finished with 12 points, six rebounds, and four assists. “Naso-short lang, nagkakaroon ng miscommunication lalo sa mga last possessions namin.”
Manuel said this will be the first time he’ll be spending Christmas winless in a conference.
But he’s looking forward to a brand-new year for the franchise in 2025 especially if fellow veteran Terrence Romeo finally gets to play for Terrafirma for the first time.
The 32-year-old shooting guard, who is still nursing an injury, has yet to suit up for the Dyip since being acquired in a trade with San Miguel along with Manuel in exchange for Juami Tiongson and Andreas Cahilig.
“Malungkot yung Pasko ko ngayon kasi first time na winless sa conference,” said Manuel in between smiles.
“Malaking factor kung makakalaro si TR (Terrence Romeo). Sana next year, makapaglaro na siya sa pagbalik namin ng bagong taon. Sana makapaglaro na siya ng makuha namin yung first win.”
Terrafirma will resume its campaign on January 7 when it takes on Phoenix at the Philsports Arena.
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