Joshua Torralba does not want to go home just yet.
Before signing a contract with third seed Makati-Super Crunch in the offseason, the 6-foot-2 combo guard last played in the Philippines with De La Salle University in 2016.
After a season with the Green Archers, Torralba decided to go back to his school University of Texas and finish his studies there.
But Torralba has found his way back in the basketball-crazy country and he is here to stay.
“Personally, as a basketball player. I am just grateful to be here, have another chance to play basketball here in the Philippines. I haven’t played here since I was in La Salle,” said the Filipino-American.
“That’s really my motivation.”
That was why he did everything in his power to lift Makati in Game Two, providing 23 points on an efficient 9-of-14 clip, including five treys, on top of three boards, two blocks and a steal.
Moreover, his side forced a do-or-die Game Three after dominating Manila-Frontrow, 75-59, in the 2020 Chooks-to-Go MPBL Lakan North semifinals, Wednesday night at a packed San Andres Sports Complex.
“I got my own lane, I got a certain mission. We can’t lose Game Two.”
When Manila sliced a once 19-point hole to just four in the fourth period, 43-47, Torralba finished the game strong.
He dropped 13 points in the payoff period alone, putting the nail in Manila’s coffin.
“I was just in the zone this game. One of those moments that I am so focused. Second and third quarters, medyo nawala ako sa game ko pero fourth quarter, I closed my eyes and just refocused again.”
The decider will be on Friday, March 6, at the same San Andres venue.
In the other semis matchup, North leader San Juan-Go for Gold booked a ticket in the division finals after sweeping fourth-ranked Pampanga-ADG Group, 91-83.
Story by Justin Valencia
Photos by Thel Suliva
