Raymond Aguilar helped spark a rally for Ginebra in the second period to erase an 18-point deficit against San Miguel in Game 1 of the PBA PH Cup semis.
Raymond Aguilar usually checks in late in the game when the outcome is already beyond doubt and the Ginebra faithful fervently chant his name to let coach Tim Cone know it is time to deploy him.
But that was not the case Wednesday night, June 25.
With main man Japeth Aguilar saddled with early foul trouble, Raymond saw action in the second period and made an impact in the Gin Kings' eventual 73-71 win over San Miguel in their PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup semifinals opener.
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His energy on both ends of the floor helped the team overcome a 25-43 deficit in the second quarter.
The shorter Aguilar said he was simply doing his job.
“Siguro, it’s just another day in the office. It’s our job na pagpasok namin, magbigay kami ng energy sa team,” said Aguilar, who wound up with six points, a rebound and a block in over eight minutes of play.
“Medyo maagang na-foul trouble si Japeth. Buti na lang nakapag-step up [ako.]”
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Aguilar has been with Ginebra long enough to know there could be moments like this one.
That is why when it does come, the 15-year veteran is ready to join his teammates in the trenches and make a difference.
“In-embrace ko talaga ang role ko. Kung magamit o hindi, stay ready lang,” he said.
“Hindi naman ako nagpapabaya. [I do] conditioning everyday. I guess ready lang talaga ako kung anong mangyari, especially nasa playoffs na tayo.”