Former Sacramento King Donte Greene finally made his debut on Friday night for TNT Katropa but, in the six-foot-nine center’s own words, it was a “rough” one.
“It was rough. It didn’t go how I planned [it],” lamented the 29-year-old moments after the Katropa’s come-from-behind, 92-89 victory over Blackwater Elite to post their second win in a row.
“But we got the win and that’s the most important thing.”
Greene still managed to put up the usual reinforcement numbers of 22 points and 13 rebounds, but what made his debut rough was his shooting — he hit only 9-of-28 in the 37 minutes he played.
“That was horrible. 9-for-28 shooting, that was terrible,” rued Greene.
“Shots weren’t falling. It felt good — it just didn’t go in.”
Even TNT head coach Nash Racela was not satisfied with the way the Syracuse product had performed, as he believes that Greene can give the Katropa more than what he had on Friday night.
“We also have to understand that this is his first time playing in the Philippines,” said Racela.
“[But] Personally, I’m not satisfied, because I know he could give us more than what he gave today.
“You only learn through experience, actual games. Hopefully, after this game, then makita niya kung ano talaga yung kailangan ibigay,” Racela added.
And Greene, who last played with Capitanes de Arecibo in Puerto Rico, vows to come out better — and to even double up his effort — in their next game against NLEX on Friday, April 7.
“I’ll get back on the gym on Sunday, get some shots up and just get ready for Friday,” he shared.
“I need to [double it]. That’s why I’m here for. I need to be much better.”