For seasoned floor general Chris Tiu, the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters’ 82-79 victory over league favorites TNT Katropa Friday night means more than just a good way to kickstart their 2018 PBA Philippine Cup campaign.
“It’s a good test for us,” shared the fifth-year pro. “Early on we’re playing close games, because towards the end of the elimination round and in the playoffs, if ever we make it there, we’ll be playing a lot of close games.
“So we have to get accustomed to that.”
More than being able to pass the “test”, making the victory even more meaningful was that they have proven that they can close out a game and win — something that they have failed to accomplish in a few games last season.
“A lot of us used to be second stringers,” recalled Tiu of last season, when Rain or Shine was reeling from the loss of multi-titled coach Yeng Guiao, main gunner Paul Lee, and long-timers Jeff Chan and JR Quiñahan to rival teams.
“(But) Now, we’re closing out games without Paul Lee, without Jeff Chan, JR Quiñahan. So it’s me, Mav [Maverick Ahanmisi] maybe [Ed] Daquioag sometimes, maybe [Don] Trollano or [Raymond] Almazan.
“So, you know, it’s a good practice for us as we move forward in the season,” the Rain or Shine lifer added.
As for himself, Tiu finished as the second highest scorer for the Elasto Painters with 12 points, going a perfect 6-for-6 from the stripe. Judging from the way he played, the 32-year-old is seemingly veering away from being a pass-first point guard.
“[I’m] Trying to be more offensive-minded — I’m more scoring-minded, if there’s such a word,” said Tiu of his aggressiveness in scoring.
“Before I was pass-first, but with the departure of some of our scorers, we have to fill in.”
Now entering his sixth year, Tiu is obviously doing tweaks in his game to contribute better for Rain or Shine. And more than the scoring, Tiu insists that he will always be there to become one of the their leaders especially to younger ones.
“I’m kind of changing my mentality to be more aggressive [not] just to facilitate [but] be more of a leader, especially now that we have a lot of young guys and new personalities in the team,” the 32-year-old said.
“So more on the leadership role siguro.”
