Korean import Kim Ji Wan already had an idea of what Philippine basketball is known for in terms of passion, but claims he was overwhelmed when he got an actual experience when he suited up for Barangay Ginebra Wednesday night.
Through an interpreter, Kim, who replaced Sanchir Tungalag as the Kings’ Asian reinforcement, says the fans gave him extra fuel as he played extensive minutes during the overtime victory over Globalport.
“I heard a lot about the PBA and how Philippine people really love basketball and also about how great Ginebra is,” Kim said in the vernacular.
“This is more than what I heard when I came and experienced the team, the fans, and the game. I was able to go through and finish the game because of how supportive the fans are and I am really appreciative because of it.”
Kim finished with 11 points including 5 in the fourth period, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists, playing close to 35 minutes although shot 4-for-13 from the field and only 1-for-7 from three-point area.
Kim has shown the ability to create shots for himself or take jumpers off screens, and off-ball movement, and is a better one-on-one defender compared to Sanchir. The import added he wants to improve on his shooting to help the squad even more in the future.
“I just arrived two days ago but I do not want to give a lot of excuses. I just had one day practice with the team. I was able to take a lot of shots but the percentages, I didn’t really make a lot of them,” he said.
“My focus right now is to keep working on my touch and probably the next game, I will be better.”
*Courtesy of PBA Images
