Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao pointed out the positives in Deon Thompson game as the import saw action for the first time in the PBA Commissioner's Cup.
Deon Thompson got a passing mark from Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao in his PBA debut on Wednesday, Dec. 4.
Guiao only had good things to say about Elasto Painters import Thompson in their 99-81 win over Eastern in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Malate.
The American-Ivorian looked comfortable with how things are run at Rain or Shine as he finished with 21 points, 15 rebounds, three assists, three steals and two blocks against the guest team.
“He’s got an inside game; he's got an outside game,” said Guiao after the match.
[RELATED STORY: Yeng Guiao pep talk sparks Rain or Shine’s spirited 4th quarter rally against Eastern]
On Nov. 27, Rain or Shine announced it tapped Thompson to replace original import Kenneth Kadji for the mid-season conference.
But he had to sit out in the squad's opening assignment to Meralco last Sunday, Dec. 1, since he was still waiting for his papers to be cleared.
Deon Thompson is fielded in by Rain or Shine for the first time in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup on Wednesday, Dec. 4. | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports
Although it's barely a week since he came on board, Thompson is already making an impact for the Elasto Painters, who is also missing the services of injured Gian Mamuyac (fractured right hand).
Just ask Guiao.
“He changes the chemistry for the better. Mas maganda 'yung ikot ng bola,” Guiao said.
"Ang galing niyang dumepensa. He’s giving us also the rebounds we needed.”
Still, Guiao believes Thompson hasn’t shown his full arsenal just yet.
“Medyo malas pa nga siya sa labas pero, tingin ko, 'pag lumabas na ang tunay na laro niya, mas magiging problema siya ng ibang teams,” he said.
Thompson will be put to test again on Tuesday, Dec. 10, against perennial contender San Miguel.
Gametime is set at 7:30 p.m. at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.