SUNDAY Salvacion enjoyed his role as playing assistant coach with Navotas Clutch-Big J Sports, more so after finally being able to contribute on the floor.
The stint was cut short, however, as the Clutch bowed to the Muntinlupa Cagers in the quarterfinal round on Tuesday.
The former College of St. Benilde player in the NCAA wasn’t able to see action right away due to an injury at the start of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League, but was glad to be able to play and help the team reach the quarterfinals.
‘“Ang hirap lang nung time na nag-start kami, tinamaan ako ng injury kaya tagal ko naka-recover para tumulong,” said Salvacion.
The 39-year-old Salvacion is glad to be reunited with and learn from head coach Elvis Tolentino, his former CSB Blazers teammate.
“Si coach Elvis kasi, may karanasan na kasi sa pag-cocoach lalo na nung napag-champion niya ‘yung PCU (Philippine Christian University). Magaling siya na point guard nung sa Benilde siya. Kulang lang kami sa experience,” said Salvacion.
Salvacion also says he enjoyed the MPBL stint because of the crowd support.
“Iba ‘yung liga dito. Ang dami talagang sumusuporta. Talagang full support ‘yung lugar kaya maraming nanonood at advantage lagi kapag homecourt,” said Salvacion.
Salvacion believes Navotas lacks experience, citing that he is the only ex-pro in the line-up.
“Kung tutuusin, malakas ’yung team namin. Tinalo namin ’yung mga malalakas. Malakas kami kapag nagsama-sama. Kulang pa sa experience. Ako lang ’yung ex-PBA,” said Salvacion.
As to his future with coaching, Salvacion said he prefers being an assistant coach, for now.
“Sa ngayon, hindi ko iniisip ’yun. Mas iniisip ko, assistant coach,” said Salvacion.
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