Even with just a two-game sample size, the Columbian Dyip are in the midst of a weird trend.
Columbian had a sensational conference debut last Sunday, romping the Blackwater Elite, 126-98. Their import CJ Aiken, though grabbing 22 rebounds, only had nine points — way below what is expected from an import in the PBA.
With head coach Ricky Dandan asking for more offensive production, the 6-foot-9 American big man tallied 21 points and 18 rebounds against the Meralco Bolts, Wednesday evening. However, it went for naught as the Bolts blew them out, 116-103.
Every club in the PBA knows how important the initial stretch is, especially in a short tournament like this. That is why Dandan is sitting down with Columbian’s brass to see what they can do to improve the team — even if it means letting go of their 27-year-old reinforcement.
“He scored 21 points and 18 rebounds I think. Of course, he’s up for evaluation,” shared Dandan after their first loss of the season. “We’re going to meet with management tomorrow morning so we’ll see.”
Dandan praised the attitude that Aiken is showing the team, and it is making him lean towards keeping him. Moreover, having had Aiken as early as March, Aiken is already familiar with the system that they are running.
“Tingnan natin, tingnan natin. CJ kasi has a very good attitude. He gets along with his teammates –- it’s good for team. And he knows the system already,” added Dandan.
“So we’ll sit down with the management tomorrow and figure things out, make a decision.”
Still, Columbian have a list of possible replacements for him. Still, Dandan chose to keep mum on who is on that list.
