Jeron Teng doesn’t mind taking a backseat on a loaded San Miguel team.
Used to being a primary option during his first six years in the PBA, the second-generation cager is willingly embracing whatever role the team assigns him, in a side filled with decorated veterans, led, of course, by six-time MVP June Mar Fajardo.
“I just fill in the role that the coaches are gonna give me,” he told reporters during the league’s Media Day at One Esplanade in Pasay, Tuesday.
“I’m a team player. What’s important is really the goal, and that is to win a championship.”
After spending his first five seasons with Alaska and Converge, Teng signed with the Beermen as a free agent just last week. That makes him the latest marquee name to join the league’s winningest ball club.
The 29-year-old is still pursuing his first PBA title and has improved his chances by joining the flagship SMC franchise, which is coming into the new season as the reigning Philippine Cup champions.
Not only that, he could also continue the legacy his dad Alvin had with the franchise. The Teng patriarch played for San Miguel from 1986-94 and won all nine of his championships there, including a Grand Slam in 1989.
“Actually, when I gave the news to my dad that I’ll be playing for San Miguel, he was really happy and excited for me to be here,” said Jeron.
“Kasi ‘yung dad ko talaga, he had his career with San Miguel and won multiple championships.
“I’m really grateful na I’m here right now, and with a good chance of competing for a championship,” added the La Salle product.
Teng, though, refuses to look that far ahead because he knows he must earn his spot with the Beermen first and foremost. He has only had three practices with his new team so far, but the former fifth-overall pick is optimistic that he could fit in just right.
“We’re fortunate that our first game is on November 15 pa so I have, like, three weeks of preparation,” said Teng.
“What’s good about San Miguel is not only the coaches but also the players — these players are the players that I look up to, ‘yung mga kuya ko, they really help me adjust faster, they’re there to guide me.”
