But he is one proud mentor after what Meralco has done in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
Meralco Bolts coach Luigi Trillo tipped his hat off to the Phoenix Fuel Masters after a thrilling PBA Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinal encounter that saw the latter move on to the next stage after two grueling games and three overtime periods.
Trillo had nothing but kind words to say about their foes, who ran away with an 88-84 victory at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday to formally advance to the next round.
“Hats off to Phoenix. Well-coached team,” he said, pointing out that a young core with Jason Perkins and import Jonathan Williams made a world of difference.
“You look at them, you can see the future is bright for Phoenix.”
But the amiable mentor couldn’t help but be proud of his own chargers, who have also dabbled in the East Asia Super League but still managed to get this far in the import-spiced conference.
Though he was not making any excuses, Trillo said their busy schedule might have taken a toll on them.
“We’ve been joining a lot of leagues which were proud to represent. But I think it took its toll,” he said.
That’s why Trillo said the coaching staff is looking to rest their seasoned gunners and play the young guys as they finish off their EASL assignment.
After that much-needed respite, the Bolts will plunge into work in preparation for the Philippine Cup.