Terrafirma head coach John Cardel remains undeterred even as his squad surpassed its win total from the entire PBA Season 47 after securing an 85-72 victory against San Miguel in the 2023 PBA On Tour at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
The Dyip went up to 4-6 in the standings, breaking their three-game losing streak in the preseason tourney.
This impressive turnaround came after Terrafirma endured 31 losses in the previous season, with only three wins to their name.
When asked about the team’s adjustments as the new season approaches, Cardel replied, “Kung nasa lampas na siguro (sa level of play last season), hindi pa. Kasi this is only a pocket tournament.
“Kahit na pocket tournament ‘to, we have to improve ourselves every game… This time, going to the next season sabi ko we have to be tough and come through.”
(C) PBA Images
Despite shooting 5-out-of-15 from the field against San Miguel, Juami Tiongson led the Dyip’s offense with 15 points and six assists.
He currently stands as the second-leading scorer in the tournament, averaging an impressive 24 points per game, and has taken a leadership role in Terrafirma alongside EJ Camson.
After recovering from an ACL injury last year, Isaac Go is gradually regaining his form, contributing an average of 9.8 points and 5.6 rebounds per game in 25 minutes of playing time.
Sophomore Javi Gomez De Liano is also making his presence felt for the Dyip during the preseason, averaging 10.3 points and 5.3 rebounds per game.
Veteran players Ed Daquioag and Gelo Alolino have also regained their confidence after also recovering from injuries.
Regarding the upcoming PBA Season 48, Cardel revealed that he and the Terrafirma management are still in search of the right import.
“May ina-eye kami pero hindi pa kami sure kasi hindi pa kami nagkakasundo don sa budget kasi we have a minimized budget so we will see. May plan B, plan C naman.”
The Dyip also have the first overall pick in the draft. (Jose Gabriel Ignacio)
