By KARLO SACAMOS
TNT may have enjoyed homecourt advantage on Wednesday night as it finally grabbed its breakthrough victory in the East Asia Super League at the expense of the Taipei Fubon Braves.
But one man from the opposing team also felt the warmth from the pro-Filipino crowd at the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex despite the Braves’ 80-69 loss.
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Sedrick Barefield cherished his long-awaited debut on Philippine soil just months after he was projected to be a top 2023 PBA draft pick, but didn’t push through and instead played in Taiwan.
“It’s honestly surreal,” the Filipino-American playmaker said. “I’ve dreamt of this moment, for sure. I tried not to be nervous or anything like that. It’s just amazing to receive love I get out here and just be back around family and friends. It’s definitely something I can mark off my goals.”
Barefield didn’t disappoint as he drew oohs and aahs for his dynamic play that allowed him to finish with 15 points on 6-of-15 shooting, including two triples, on top of five assists, four rebounds, and two steals without a turnover in over 32 minutes as a starter.
“I take it on with pride. I try to represent as best as I can with the way I play and with my approach,” said the 6-foot-2 University of Utah product who once played in the NBA G League for the Oklahoma City Blue.
Barefield mum on PBA plans
Asked if the PBA remains in the horizon, Barefield let out a sheepish smile as he sat beside coach Chin-Che Hsu, knowing he remains in contract with the Braves.
“Right now, my focus is just to finish the season with Fubon, try to help them as much as I can,” said Barefield, who turned 27 just last November 18.
“I don’t know what the future holds right now. Just taking it day by day, just trying to be present with my team and coaches, and help as much as I can,” he added.
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