Jio Jalalon was back in his usual self on Sunday as Magnolia battled Columbian in 2019 PBA Governors’ Cup action.
Averaging just 4.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.0 assists prior to Sunday, the third-year guard filled up the stat sheet with 19 points, nine rebounds, eight assists, a steal, and a block in over 32 minutes.
His presence was definitely big for the Hotshots, since they beat the Dyip, 118-103, to snap their three-game skid.
“We needed his energy. ‘Yun ‘yung hinahanap namin sa kanya. Nag-settle down na si Jio, the issues and everything. Very happy for him also,” lauded coach Chito Victolero.
By ‘issue’, Victolero was referring to the trade rumors. But none other than team governor Rene Pardo has shunned those, saying that Jalalon will stay with Magnolia for the long-term.
Meanwhile, the former Arellano University Chief reiterated that he remains unaffected.
“Okay naman talaga ako. Hindi ko naman talaga iniisip ‘yun. Si Boss Gov (Pardo) lang sinabihan lang ako na ibawi ko daw siya sa mga nilabas niyang salita,” said the 27-year-old Jalalon.
“Sabi ko naman, ‘Sige boss’, kasi ‘di naman talaga ako nag-doubt na ite-trade ako eh. Alam ko naman ‘yun eh.”
Moreover, all that Jalalon cares about is doing his thing on the hardwood on a consistent basis.
“Nawala ‘yung hardworker so binalik ko lang. Kumbaga, kung ano ‘yung ginagawa ko dati, binalik ko lang ngayon. Kumbaga para akong nagtanim ulit, eto may inaani na. Sana magtuloy-tuloy.”
