PAGADIAN, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR — Eloy Poligrates played his first game for ALZA Alayon in the 2021 Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas VisMin Super Cup, Saturday.
Poligrates was originally part of the Zamboanga del Sur roster months before the commencement of the Mindanao Leg.
However, the Cebuano scorer came across some personal problems that forced him to take a leave from the team.
“Nakapag-ensayo na ako ng dalawang buwan kaso ‘yun nga, nagkaproblema so umuwi ako ng Cebu,” said Poligrates.
The 33-year-old then missed two games, their opening game against Basilan where they were crushed, 48-82; and the cancelled match against Iligan after the first quarter last July 8 due to unplayable court.
But as a man of his word, Poligrates returned to ALZA Alayon on July 9 to honor his contract.
“Syempre talagang babalik ako sa ALZA kasi naka-kontrata ako sa kanila eh, so kailangan ko talaga maglaro.”
And he was a welcome addition right off the bat, Saturday evening at the Pagadian City Gymnasium here.
This as despite losing to JPS Zamboanga City, 79-82, Poligrates showed what he’s capable of.
The 6-foot sniper dropped 17 points in his debut, including three triples, alongside five steals, and two blocks.
But he was the first to admit he is still out of playing shape.
“Actually sinabi ko talaga kay Coach Bong (Abad) na wala pa ako sa kundisyon,” shared Poligrates.
“Pero okay lang, sa susunod na game baka mag-adjust na kami at makakuha na kami ng panalo.”
