Terrafirma’s dramatic come-from-behind victory versus Rain or Shine on Saturday night wasn’t just a breakthrough in the 2021 PBA Governors’ Cup.
It meant so much more for the organization.
“We just wanted to give a good showing, especially with what the team has been going through the past few weeks,” said lead assistant Gian Nazario.
The past weeks have been tough for the Dyip.
Last November 24, jubilation turned into gloom when Roider Cabrera collapsed after their win versus Ginebra in the second leg of the PBA 3×3 inaugurals.
The 31-year-old at that time was emerging as one of the league’s stars with his gunslinging ways. He has since been in the hospital recovering.
Then came another bad news for the 5-on-5 squad. Johnedel Cardel couldn’t fully attend to his head coaching duties after suffering a back injury.
A former player himself, the 51-year-old reportedly got hurt from playing in a pickup game. Hence, the double effort of his staff to guide their wards.
And recently, Nazario disclosed, team manager Ronald Tubid lost his brother.
So, they all wanted to win on Saturday to somehow alleviate the heaviness. And they did just that by way of a 110-99 overtime victory.
“So, we just wanted to give something positive for the team, and for the fans of Terrafirma,” the seasoned bench tactician said.
This was the second game that Nazario coached in place of Cardel.
But while others may see him as blessed to have the chance to coach in the league, the current La Salle assistant coach said that he’s only fulfilling his duties.
Nothing else.
“Ayoko i-ano siya as an opportunity, kasi it’s my job as the head assistant to have Coach John’s back if things don’t go well,” he said.
Neither did Nazario take the credit for Terrafirma’s triumph. Instead, he said that everyone in the entire team has been helping each other out.
“It’s a conscious effort between the coaching staff and of course the players. We approach them; we talk to them and see what’s comfortable for them.”
