Calvin Abueva’s energy has always been his calling card, and SMART Gilas Pilipinas knows it too well. But on Sunday night as the Filipinos took on the visiting Japan, the Beast’s impact went beyond his forte.
The 30-year-old forward only had eight points in Gilas’ 89-84 victory over the win-hungry Akatsuki Five, but Gilas head coach Chot Reyes was so pleased with Abueva’s performance all because of the efficiency he had.
“He’s our most efficient player.
“I think that’s the first time in history that Calvin led us in efficiency,” said the strategist, as Abueva shot 4-of-7 from the floor and collected three rebounds, two assists, and a steal in 10:48 minutes.
But what really stood out in the Chooks-to-Go ambassador’s statistics — and what made the outspoken mentor sing high praises — was his plus-minus rating as he had a team-high plus-20 index.
It was definitely a huge outing by Abueva, considering that just weeks ago, he was already stripped from the Gilas team for the Asian Qualifiers’ second window. So for him, he relished the opportunity he was given once more.
“Masarap na makabalik ulit dito. Pagka-balik ko, binigay ko naman ang best ko,” said the 6-foot-2 utility forward.
After Sunday night’s win, the 3-1 Gilas is now assured of a spot into the Qualifiers’ next round. But that, Abueva clarified, doesn’t mean that they will just give away their remaining games in the third window on June.
“Nabalitaan ko na pasok na tayo sa second round, pero siyempre hindi pa rin namin ibibigay yung third window na kakalabanin namin yung Taiwan tsaka Australia ‘di ba,” said Abueva, who’s averaging 6.5 points and 3.3 boards in the tournament so far.
“Sa amin, sa paghahanda pa ang dapat naming pagtuunan ng pansin.”
