What’s with the prolific import?
Converge FiberXers import Jamaal Franklin was uncharacteristically quiet in the FiberXers 120-101 loss to the Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings in their PBA Governors’ Cup match at the PhilSports Arena.
Coming into the game, the prolific import was averaging 23 field goal attempts. Curiously, he only had 5 which were good for 4 points in Sunday’s game.
Was he injured? Was it a ploy that just didn't work?
TV5’s Apple David reported that Franklin told his coaches he wanted to get his teammates’ confidence going by being a facilitator.
“He wants to facilitate and give them their shots. But he’s also smart enough to know when to set them up and when to take charge,” David said.
Unfortunately, the “take-charge” part was nowhere to be seen the rest of the way as the Gin Kings buried Converge one shot after another.
Franklin had 5 rebounds and the same number of assists across his name in 35 minutes of play as the FiberXers wrapped up their elimination round campaign with a 6-5 win-loss record.
Ginebra coach Tim Cone said he was surprised to see him that passive. But his concern was only on whether or not the Gin Kings seize the Top 4 heading into the playoffs.
“Yes, we’re a little bit surprised that Franklin wasn’t as aggressive,” he said.
“But that’s not our issue… we’re just gonna go up there and try to win.”
As it is now, the Gin Kings have the chance to grab the twice-to-beat advantage. They are currently tied with San Miguel Beermen with a 7-2 record.