NLEX import Kwame Alexander was coming off a frustrating performance against Talk ‘N Text last week, which triggered talks of him getting replaced. But instead of letting the replacement talks bother him, Alexander used the threat as a motivation to redeem himself and boost his impression among his teammates and management.
With a more aggressive mindset, Alexander scored 28 points, hauled down 11 rebounds, and shot 8-for-14 from the field, a staggering rate compared to his atrocious 9-for-22 shooting against the Tropang Texters to lead the Road Warriors to a 113-102 win over the Alaska Aces Tuesday.
“That is why we — and me — played a lot a lot harder. I believe they like me and they don’t want me to leave so it was more of a sense of urgency from them. I thank them for sticking with me. It is a good thing we won and I might stay a little longer in the league and bring some more excitement,” Alexander said.
Although Alexander also finished with a double-double against the Tropang Texters, he was visibly bothered by the thought of the team falling down, and it took himself out of the game.
This time around, the reinforcement played with a more conscious effort to be mature and stick to the game plan.
“It was good. That is the thing about basketball. You always have the chance to play better. I was frustrated the last time out because we were losing. It was good to get a win because a lot of weight is off my shoulder now,” he said.
“We had to get a win tonight. The locals stepped up and it was a good thing they did because the whole team follows. I am glad we got the win. We are capable of beating any team so that gives the confidence against other teams. San Miguel is an even tougher team. The record does not matter so hopefully we can get another win. We cannot let the intensity go down.”
NLEX head coach Boyet Fernandez also pledged his support for the reinforcement although confirmed the Road Warriors management have thought of replacing Alexander.
“We talked to him last time about the situation against Talk ‘N Text. We instructed him to attack the basket. I told him you have to show a lot of energy and intensity to this team. We explained it to him and I think the way he played tonight, for sure the management will give him another chance. We are thinking about [replacing him], but with the way he played I think he gave himself a chance to stay,” Fernandez said.
Asked if he feels he has proven himself, Alexander said: “Yeah. I think I do that every game. Business is business. I believe I have proven myself so hopefully it carries over.”
