Under new Manila head coach Cholo Villanueva, Carlo Lastimosa has learned to become a better facilitator.
Of course, the known-scorer from Cagayan de Oro is still putting up 14.0 points in two games played. But he is also dishing out a team-high 4.5 points per game.
And it’s because the 31-year-old is at the stage of his career wherein he wants his teammates to look good as well.
According to Villanueva, Lastimosa is also developing into a leader off the court as well, especially to the Stars’ young guns in Brent Paraiso and Mark Dyke.
“It’s not just in games.
“If you look at Carlo in practices, he answers them and gives them time,” said Villanueva, a product of La Salle. “Carlo is in the part of his career that he has become a mentor. Brent and Dyke are picking up a lot of pointers if they want to get into the next level.”
Paraiso has been deadly for the Stars, averaging 9.8 points, 3.0 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. Dyke, on the other hand, is norming 6.8 points and 4.3 rebounds.
Together with Lastimosa, they have created a beautiful symphony, going 3-1 in the 2021 Chooks-to-Go MPBL Invitational tournament.
And definitely, Lastimosa is impressed with his juniors.
“I’m really impressed kasi mga bata at gusto magpakita.
“Lalo na sa Brent at si Dyke, lagi ko sinasabi na if they are open, tirahin nila. That’s how they will get their confidence,” said Lastimosa.
Lastimosa though hopes Paraiso gains maturity during his stint in Manila before he heads to Letran.
“Si Brent magaling kaso bata pa. Masyado pang mabilis yung game sa kanya. Pero they are like sponges. They really listen to the coaches and the vets.”
