The former Letran Knight was traded to Converge from NorthPort early January.
When Jerrick Balanza was traded to Converge to reunite with his college coach in Aldin Ayo, not a few thought it would be a smooth transition for the former Letran Knight.
Balanza, who was traded from NorthPort for Allyn Bulanadi weeks before the PBA Governors’ Cup unfurls, begged to differ.
“Nahirapan po ako [mag-adjust],” Balanza, who will also play alongside Letran teammate Kevin Racal, told OneSports.ph.
As a rookie, Balanza won the 2015 NCAA championship with Ayo and Racal. It appears much has changed as far as the system is concerned.
But thanks to his teammates, he was able to have a full grasp of the system Ayo is employing with the FiberXers.
“Buti 'yung mga teammates ko po lagi ako sinasabihan, tinuturuan. Malaki din 'yung adjustment na ginawa ko pero nakuha ko na din po 'yung sistema ni coach,” said Balanza, who averaged 6.3 points, 1.75 rebounds, and 1.67 assists for the Batang Pier in the previous conference.
His mettle will be tested once the FiberXers open their season-ending conference campaign today against Batang Pier in the 6:45 game at the PhilSports Arena.
As always, Balanza is ready to come out and play whenever his number is called.
“And sa fans, mae-expect nila sakin na maglalaro ako para sa team at gagawin ko lahat ng mako-contribute ko. Kasi ang attitude ko naman, kahit saan ako maglaro ibibigay ko talaga 'yung best at puso ko,” he said.