William Navarro won championships in the NCAA and the UAAP with San Beda and Ateneo, respectively. Now he wants to win another in the PBA with Magnolia.
When he entered the court for the first time as a Magnolia player, it was obvious that the former NorthPort stalwart William Navarro was still getting a feel of the Hotshots' system.
Coach Chito Victolero, though, continued easing Navarro in, hopeful that his newly acquired forward will eventually make a difference for his charges in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup playoffs.
The 6-foot-6 forward ended up with five points, four rebounds and one assist in almost 17 minutes of play in the Hotshots' setback against Ginebra, 81-85, Sunday, June 1.
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The adjustment period was understandable for someone who was acquired in a trade with the Batang Pier less than a week ago and was playing in his first Manila Clasico at the historic Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.
“It will be a process. Nakita ninyo, wala pang jelling talaga. 'Yong chemistry, medyo malayo pa. We expect naman talagang mag-aadjust talaga,” said Victolero when asked about the young buck.
Despite Navarro's unfamiliarity with his teammates, being part of a perennial contender in Magnolia is something familiar for the former UAAP champion with Ateneo.
It’s as if Navarro is right where he belongs.
“Yes, of course (excited playing for a contender). Siyempre, I’m used to winning. Ever since, 'di ba, from college pa lang — San Beda, Ateneo — palaging champion team,” said Navarro.
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As a champion for both the NCAA (San Beda, 2016) and UAAP (Ateneo, 2016 and 2018-19), Navarro is used to dealing with pressure.
Manila Clasico was nothing different.
“For me, it’s just another game. No pressure. Why do I have to pressure myself, 'di ba? So I’ll just keep it simple: just have fun and do what I do best,” Navarro said.
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Slipping to a 7-2 record to share the lead with NLEX, the Hotshots are gunning for a Top Four finish that comes with a twice-to-beat advantage.
Victolero believes that it will just need some time before Navarro proves that he is a key piece in Magnolia’s quest of breaking a seven-year championship drought.
“Hopefully, when the playoff starts, maganda na 'yong tatakbuhin ng chemistry with Will. Nakatatlong practice pa lang siya sa'min. So, siguro magiging maganda naman 'yon after a few days,” Victolero said.