It took four conferences, but Baser Amer is finally coming out of his shell
Ever since his days with San Beda College, Baser Amer’s game usually did the talking for him, leading San Beda to four championships during his time. But being silent and not imposing does not work in the PBA, especially if you are a floor general.
With four conferences under his belt, the 24-year-old is starting to become Meralco’s leader — both on and off the court. And during the Meralco Bolts’ 89-83 win over the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters on Wednesday evening, it showed, as Amer provided the finishing touches to keep their perfect slate intact.
In one particular play, his growth showed. With 26.5 ticks remaining and Meralco holding just an 85-83 lead, Amer called for a pick-and-roll play with Alex Stepheson.
“Binigay sakin ni coach Norman [Black] yung last play. Sinabi nya na ibigay sakin yung bola. Kinausap ko rin si Alex na bigyan ako ng magandang screen tapos ako na bahala sa kanya,” Amer narrated. “Ginawa naman niya tapos nadagdagan yung assist ko.”
The Davaoeño finished the game with 17 points, 11 rebounds, and six dimes, to increase his norms to 16.25 points, 4.25 rebounds, and 3.75 assists in four games. Beyond the numbers, the most important factor that has changed in him is that he has started to become vocal, overcoming the intimidation he felt with his veteran teammates.
“Sinabihan ako ni coach kahit baguhan ako sa team kailangan matuto ako pagsabihan sila,” the sophomore shared.
“Dapat di ako matakot sa kanila kahit beterano sila at baguhan ako sa league.
“Akala ko nung una mahirap kasi nakakahiya. Pero once na sinabihan mo sila in a good way, mas madali lang pala. High school college nagagawa ko naman, nahinto lang nung baguhan ako kasi nga nahihiya,” the seventh overall pick in the 2015 draft furthered.
“Pero comfortable na ako. Sana tuloy tuloy na.”
And after two years in the league, Amer is finally showing why scouts had been so excited about him during his collegiate days.
