The Talk ‘N Text Tropang Texters head coach Jong Uichico is delighted at the progress Troy Rosario has been making, and the number two overall draft pick is making sure to work double-time in practice to keep improving.
Rosario has improved his production and overall shooting percentage in his last two games which the Tropang Texters split.
The former National University forward has averaged 18.5 PPG and 7.5 RPG in his last two affairs, shooting 59.3 percent overall including 5-for-9 from three-point area. This is in stark contrast to his first four games, where he only had 9.8 PPG on 48.6 percent shooting and no three-point conversions.
“He is getting better and more comfortable. Malaking bagay yun in spite of growing pains. They are young and they will learn more things, and fast track. The more they get to play, may sakripisyo ka ng konti. Mabili ang pag-adjust nila,” Uichico quipped of his prized stalwart after TNT beat Blackwater, 109-98.
Rosario shared that he has taken extra time to shoot around in practice, before and after every game. As one of the contemporary forwards in the league, the 6-foot-7 newcomer wants his touch to be a main weapon.
“Hindi naman ako ganoong kalakas o malako ang katawan. Kailangan ko humanap ng weapon sa laro ko and yun ang naisip kong pagtuunan ng pansin,” Rosario said, who also cited the importance of spacing, and filling in for Ranidel de Ocampo’s role.
“Every before and after practice, ginagawa ko magshooting. I take advantage. Isang dahilan na rin, kailangan ma-open si Jayson (Castro) so dapat ma-space ang floor.”
Asked about whether he might add more tools to his arsenal, like post moves, Rosario says he will take it one step at a time.
“Yung post moves naman, nagpapaturo ako kina kuya Danny (Seigle). May konti silang tips. Pero nalilito pa ako eh. Siguro shooting muna pagtutuunan ko ng pansin,” he said.
Uichico knows Rosario and other rookie Moala Tautuaa will play big roles, should the Tropang Texters make the playoffs, and the mentor hopes they both continue becoming accustomed to the TNT system.
“Hopefully we get to the playoffs. We have to get there first and we need our two rookies to be a big part whether it is rebounding or defense or getting to know their niche in the team.”
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