NLEX head coach Yeng Guiao was glad to see Philip Paniamogan regain his old form in their 2021 Honda PBA Philippine Cup match with Blackwater, Thursday.
The 30-year-old guard had his best performance of the conference so far, He finished with 14 points on four triples to play a key role in the 90-73 victory.
He has never scored in double figures in the tilt before facing the Bossing, with only a per-game average of 4.3 points – numbers below his standard.
The former JRU Heavy Bombers star’s performance came at a time when main gunners Kevin Alas and Jericho Cruz combined for only 18 points.
Photo by PBA Images
“Natutuwa kami, kasi there will be times na Kevin and Jericho will not be scoring as much, but they will still attract the defense,” said Guiao. “And si Philip will be there to floor-space, to create opportunities for the three-point shot.
“So ‘yun, eksakto, ginawa niya. Lalo na, ang daming team ngayon, nagso-sona. So you need that consistent three-point shot from players, especially kamukha ni Philip,” added the decorated mentor.
Paniamogan not only made his presence felt on offense. He also collected three rebounds, an assist, and a steal in over 23 minutes.
Guiao actually batted for the Cagayan de Oro native to win Best Player of the Game, but the citation went to JR Quiñahan.
“Pero okay na rin ‘yun, okay na rin. I’m sure alam din ni JR ‘yun,” said the outspoken mentor.
“Marami kasi ‘tong Best Player of the Game eh. Si Philip paminsan-minsan lang, hindi pa niya nakuha, sayang.”
The veteran big man, who had 16 points in his return from a hand injury, was in agreement with his long-time mentor.
Photo by PBA Images
“Actually, kinausap ko si Philip before ng game. Sabi ko sa kanya, ‘Philip, gusto ko ikaw mag-Best Player of the Game today, ah,” he said.
He did not get it in the end, though. But Quiñahan couldn’t feel happier and satisfied with how his teammates responded through his play.
“Sinagot naman niya.”
