One of the exciting matches I’ve watched so far in the 2023 PBA season was the recent duel between also-rans Blackwater and Rain Or Shine last Sunday in the Gov’s Cup.
(Unfortunately for Brgy. Ginebra fanatics, the Gin Kings miserably lost by a whopping 30-point deficit to sister ballclub Magnolia.)
The herculean performance of Greg Smith, who replaced Michael Qualls, awed me and delivered a much deserved win for the Elasto Painters, 122-117.
The 6’5” star from Colorado State was not a do-it-all performer who wanted to impress his credentials that would guarantee his return next season.
Smith played his game normally. He was cool, calculating and composed throughout. He produced the points, defended well, rebounded well, issued assists and inspired his teammates to work harder.
Smith, unmistakably, has a very high basketball IQ, taking his shots with precision and timing, scoring two consecutive treys after the tip-off, ominously sending a message to the Bossing guys. His ball handling minimized his turnovers although his free throw shooting was not perfect.
Coach Yeng Guiao was visibly satisfied with his new import as he remained calm all throughout even when his boys were, at some point, trailing.
I think Smith knew the defense would focus on him. Instead of hogging the ball as is usual with prolific imports, Smith involved his teammates in offense while providing defense against their opponent’s fastbreaks.
On his debut, Smith produced an awe-inspiring 38 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists despite the jetlag he was still feeling on playing day. Definitely, he was in good shape and fine form.
Of course, on the other side, Troy Williams was not outdone as he put in 40 pts. for Blackwater which led 95-87 after three quarters and only fell behind in the closing minutes of the fourth.
Actually, when the battle is sea-sawing in nobody’s firm favor, the coach cannot but hope (and pray) that his import produces miracles at the right time and place.
Exactly what Smith did.
When Blackwater was catching up, 106-100 with three minutes more playing time, Smith teamed up with Jewel Ponferrada to up ROS lead to 115-106, giving the Elasto Painters more than enough breathing space to nail the hard-earned victory.
Officiating, I think, was better. There were no questionable calls that were protested by both camps. Only one or two technicals were slapped, I think.
Arguably, Smith could make it two in a row for Guiao.
SCORES; RAIN OR SHINE – Smith 38; Santillan 16; Demusis 12; Belga 12. Ildefonso 12; Asistio 7; Clarito5, Ponferrada, Norwood 4; Caracut 3’ Torres, Yap 0.
BLACKWATER – Williams 40; Sena 15; Hill 14; McCarthy 10; Ilagan 8; Ular 7; Amer 5; Ayonayon 4; Banal 3; Taha 2; Torralba 0.
Quarter scores: 34-31; 66-67; 87-95; 122-117. (Email feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!
