MAGNOLIA coach LA Tenorio believes Jerom Lastimosa’s growing impact on both ends of the court is a sign that the young guard is beginning to embrace a bigger role with the Hotshots.
Tenorio’s confidence in Lastimosa was rewarded when the guard delivered a career-best 30 points in Magnolia’s 115-101 victory over Phoenix Super LPG in the PBA 50th Season Governors’ Cup.
“More than his offense, ‘yung depensa niya,” Tenorio said of Lastimosa. “Buti nagre-respond siya. Alam ng mga players na siya ang madalas ko pagalitan because I know ‘yung kaya niyang gawin sa team na ‘to. Sabi ko sa kanya na it’s his responsibility now na matuto siya. May mangyari sa team sa loob ng team o wala, siya ang pagagalitan ko.”
Lastimosa responded by shooting 11-of-14 from the field while also recording three assists and two steals as Magnolia closed the first portion of the season on a three-game winning streak.
The victory was particularly significant for the Hotshots, who recovered from a 1-3 start before the league entered its six-week break.
Lastimosa’s performance also earned him the PBA Press Corps Player of the Week award for Aug. 11-14, beating out Converge’s Justin Arana and Meralco’s Chris Newsome for the weekly recognition.
Rather than take Tenorio’s constant criticism negatively, Lastimosa said he views it as part of his development as a player.
“Doon naman tayo matututo. I never take for granted na nagagalit si coach sa akin. It means, may pakialam siya at gusto lang niya ma-improve pa ‘yung laro ko,” Lastimosa said.
The guard’s willingness to respond to his coach’s demands has given Magnolia another reliable option as the Hotshots look to build on their late surge once the Governors’ Cup resumes.
For Tenorio, Lastimosa’s development goes beyond his scoring ability. The coach expects him to become more accountable and understand what Magnolia needs from him on a consistent basis.
Lastimosa now enters the league’s six-week break with his best individual performance in the PBA and a major confidence boost as Magnolia prepares for the second half of its Governors’ Cup campaign. (Adrian Co)
