A player’s ability to take charge and go the depths of whatever’s known possible in this realm of existence is what separates them from the ordinary.
Rain or Shine guard, Paul Lee went down in the first half clinging on to his right ankle. It did not look good as he was seen grimacing in pain. Moreover, He managed to connect on some free throws, but going back on defense, Lee lost his step, and even asked his teammates to foul intentionally, so he could be subbed out.
Realizing what is at stake and how close they are to possibly winning a championship, Lee set aside whatever thought he had of his health, and buckled down to work to finish with 20 points, including 14 in the fourth period.
“Pinipush lang ako ng teammates ko. Kumukuha ako ng lakas ng loob sa kanila. Kailangan sacrifice lang. Gusto ko manalo ng championship eh,” Lee shared.
He added a rebound and four assists, shooting 5-for-10 from the field in 29 minutes to help the Elasto Painters tie the PBA Commissioner’s Cup finals series at one apiece.
“Nagtutulungan lang kami. Wala na kaming magagawa (kay Jayson Castro) so ginawa lang namin nung second half nag-adjust kami sa depensa,” Lee quipped of Castro who scored a career-high 44 points.
Not even at one hundred percent, Lee says he is ready to play in Game 3 on Sunday.
“Same game plan lang (sa Game 3). Yun lang ang importante, yung desire. Kung mawawala yun, TNT, sobrang delikado yan. Tatapusin ko kahit ano mangyari sa akin sa series.”
To underscore Lee’s desire is to understand the entire context. He was barely a part of Rain or Shine’s first-ever crown as he watched from the sidelines while nursing an injury.
Lee knows that the finals series is a rare opportunity, and with all the weapons his team has, he wouldn’t simply let their chance slip away. He plans to go all out, whatever the cost, and he is ready to go against all odds.
It’s what makes him one of the best.
MORE 2015 PBA COMMISSIONERS CUP FINALS COVERAGE
Jireh Ibañes on defense: It’s how we win
Rain or Shine spoils Castro’s historic shooting display; ties finals at one game apiece
Do’s & Dont’s: PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals 2015 Game 2
