Wednesday marked the first time that Juami Tiongson went up against his former team NLEX since it shipped him away prior to the start of the 2019 PBA Governors’ Cup two months ago.
Last August, the Road Warriors traded Tiongson to NorthPort for Michael Miranda. He did not stay long with the Batang Pier, though, as they then sent him to Columbian as part of a multi-player deal.
The 5-foot-10 point guard played as if he were inspired, picking up 18 points on 58-percent shooting from the field. He also had three rebounds, two assists, and a steal in over 18 minutes of play.
“Medyo ganado ako eh,” said Tiongson with a chuckle after the match where he and the Dyip lost, 111-117.
However, he made it clear that he had no extra motivations while facing the Road Warriors. For Tiongson, he feels nothing but gratitude to the organization for all that it had done to him.
Back in 2017, NLEX called him up from the PBA D-League following his solid outings with AMA Online Education, paving the way for his return to Asia’s pioneering pro league.
“Nothing personal. So much respect for NLEX for what they have done for me. Sila talaga nagbigay sa ‘kin ng opportunity na makabalik ako sa PBA,” said the 28-year-old Tiongson.
“Very appreciative pa rin ako. Malaki yung gratitude ko for them.”
Now, Tiongson is making the most of his stay with Columbian. He also said he has had no difficulties adjusting since he has been teammates before with current Dyip men like Eric Camson and Glenn Khobuntin.
“Sobrang mabilis adjustment kasi sobrang babait ng players, ng coaches, ng management. Tsaka yung iba naging teammates ko na. Parang hindi siya new team para sa ‘kin.”
