Jared Dillinger did not resort to providing safe answers when asked who he wants the Meralco Bolts to battle in the 2017 Governor’s Cup Finals.
For him, his sights are all locked in to their tormentors: Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.
“I hope we play Ginebra just because they beat us last year,” said Dillinger after their Finals-clinching win over Star Hotshots, 91-88, Thursday night. “So wouldn’t want it any other way [but] to play with those guys.
“[We would like to] get a chance to get some revenge against them.”
The Fil-Hawaiian guard-forward, who averaged 14.33 points, 3.33 rebounds, and 3.33 assists in the semifinals, is hard-pressed to battle the defending champs as he felt that he was robbed of a chance to face them last year due to the untimely hamstring injury he sustained prior to the series.
“I tore my hamstring before even playing one game and I had to sit on the sidelines,” he recalled. “I’ve been kicking my butt for a year, hoping we get a chance to play in the Finals, and finally making it it’s just… Ahh, so relieved.
“I didn’t get a chance out there and help the team and now this year I’m healthy.”
The 33-year-old is aware that he is now the most hated player by the Barangay faithful, following his infamous Twitter rants about the Gin Kings months ago.
That one was tough. Hats off to TNT for sticking it out. Beat Ginebra. I can’t stand those guys.
— Jared Dillinger (@JDHawaii20) June 9, 2017
And if ever a rematch will take place, he is more than ready to accept the jeers.
“I love it, I love it (boos),” shared the outspoken nine-year veteran with a grin. “They love their team. They have their opinions, I have my opinions. But of course, it’s gonna be so much fun. I can’t wait, I can’t wait!
“But until then, it’s just sit back and enjoy the night, have a beer or so.”
