IT was tough to appreciate Henry Sims' debut on a night when Meralco counterpart Eric Dawson exploded for a season-high 57 points, but the Petron import's efficient performance didn't escape Bolts coach Ryan Gregorio's attention.
“I was surprised (by Sims' first game)," said Gregorio at the end of Meralco's 102-92 win over the Boosters on Friday night.
"I thought he’ll be jetlagged and affected by the long flight but give that guy a few more days of rest ... I think he’s the right import for Petron because he’s got that explosive move, can outrun you and has the talent.”
Playing his first PBA game less than 48 hours since arriving in Manila and with just one practice under his belt, the 23-year-old Sims scored 23 points and grabbed 16 rebounds while logging 35 minutes.
The former Georgetown Hoya, however, scored just seven points the entire second half and later admitted running out of gas near the end.
“I think I played a good game, but Dawson scored 57 points today. It was such a special night for him, because it’s like he’s not missing shots,” said the 6-10 Sims.
Sims said he'll try to get as much rest as he could, practice with the Boosters on Saturday, before his much-awaited face-off with former Los Angeles Laker DJ Mbenga, who will reinforce Barako Bull on Sunday.
“I’m a little tired because it’s been my first game in a while, so I got winded early. But I feel I played strong. I’ll just be ready for Sunday,” added the former starting center of the Erie Bayhawks in the NBA D-League.
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