It was only a matter of time for Greg Slaughter to unleash his alter ego Gregzilla in the 2017 Governors’ Cup Finals. And “Gregzilla” finally emerged at the best time possible for the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in the tie-breaking Game Five, Sunday.
After averaging just 8.75 points and 5.5 rebounds in the Finals’ first four games, Slaughter was a different animal in Game Five, unloading 17 markers, and 16 rebounds. Moreover, the seven-footer racked up a game-high six blocks.
And on top of that, his performance was vital in the Barangay’s 85-74 victory, which moves them to a win away from extending their reign as champions.
“Greg wasn’t making all of his shots but he was aggressive and physical and going after rebounds and that’s a big difference-maker for us,” lauded coach Tim Cone.
“And when he could do that, that changes the game for us.”
“Coach gave me the start and I didn’t want to disappoint him or my teammates,” said the 28-year-old slotman, on the other hand, “This is a crucial one for us, just fortunate that we got the win but the job is not done yet.
“I’m just glad we got the win.”
And for the Cleveland, Ohio native, his excellent outing was just the result of the aggressiveness he and the Gin Kings displayed all throughout the match.
“Definitely when you start, you gotta set the tone early. Not just me but the whole starting unit, we came out really aggressive, got off to a good lead,” said the Ateneo de Manila University product, who was a plus-17 in the victory.
Ginebra now have the luxury of closing out the best-of-seven series in Game Six on Wednesday, just as they had done in last year’s Finals match. And for Slaughter, the team that will show more desire will come out successful.
“It’s hard to say but I think whoever comes out hungry on Wednesday is gonna get that game.”
