RJ Abarrientos topscored for fan favorite Ginebra in its win over Blackwater in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup.
RJ Abarrientos proved to be the difference in Ginebra’s 103-95 win over Blackwater in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Wednesday, Dec. 10.
His recent stint with Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers had something to do with this.
Abarrientos said he got a confidence boost from his return to the national team, this time under coach Tim Cone, as the Gin Kings enter a crucial stretch in the conference.
“Obviously, 'yong confidence ko mas iba,” said Abarrientos.
Abarrientos wound up with 15 points, three rebounds, an assist and a steal to help Ginebra even its record to 4-4 in its first game back from the league's lengthy breather to accommodate Gilas’ preps.
“I’m very grateful na nakabalik din ako ng Gilas with coach Tim. Happy din akong nagagawa ko ulit ang part ko as a Gilas member,” Abarrientos said.
The 5-foot-9 guard hopes to continue playing for Gilas, whose World Cup and Olympics aspirations remain pretty much alive.
“Hopefully, magtuluy-tuloy. I’m ready to serve the country every time they call me. I’m just grateful for the opportunity, very thankful,” he said.
But as Gilas had successfully wrapped up its task via a sweep of Guam in the first window of the qualifiers, Abarrientos is now focused on helping the Gin Kings punch a ticket to the quarterfinals after an up-and-down conference.
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Like most sportswriters, Jan Ballesteros once dreamed of becoming a professional hooper. But he learned the hard way that it’s not for everyone.
He continues to be involved in the sport he loves, but this time as a member of the PBA Press Corps. Aside from primarily covering the PBA, he is also assigned to cover Gilas Pilipinas.