Ricardo Ratliffe finds no better way to repay the trust of Magnolia than leading by example for a team that’s desperately doing what it can to save what has undeniably been a trying PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup campaign.
The veteran import is showing how thankful he is to the Hotshots for sticking with him despite the tough times by delivering solid performances that have translated to much-needed victories for the playoff-seeking side.
“You know, they had the opportunity to change imports but they believed in me and they stuck with me,” said the 35-year-old bruising big man.
Ratliffe said as much Friday, moments after powering Magnolia to a 129-92 rout of Meralco to force a playoff for no. 8 against either NLEX or Rain or Shine.
There, he finished with 31 points and 19 rebounds, scoring 15 in the first quarter alone.
Moreover, he helped his squad set the tone and take the Bolts out of their rhythm that early — and make them sorely miss the presence of Akil Mitchell.
“I had to do that,” the naturalized Korean offered about taking advantage of having no counterpart on the floor. “They’re a good defensive team, but unfortunately, they were without their import tonight.
“So, I had to be a little bit more extra aggressive and just lead the team,” he continued.
“And I know as I go, they’re going to follow me.”
(C) PBA Images
Magnolia does go where Ratliffe goes and that was the case over their final three fixtures of the elimination round, which were all do-or-die encounters.
The Hotshots aced all those tests and that particular stretch witnessed the Missouri product average 26.0 points and 18.0 rebounds.
But it’s worth noting, too, that he had delivered solidly even during what was a roller-coaster ride before the winning streak. And that’s in part because he’s gotten into much better shape after suffering a minor shoulder injury early in the tilt.
“I’ve gotten in a lot better shape,” he said. “I suffered an injury in my second game, and had me with a lot of discomfort for a couple of weeks. But I rehabbed hard. I really trusted the trainers, and the coaching staff trusted me.”
Thus, his gratitude toward the ball club especially to the coaches for keeping his services even if they could have brought in a healthier replacement.
“So, I just try to make sure I repay them by going out there and playing the best I can and hopefully, it’s good enough to bring some victories,” he said.
It has led to victories indeed but there remains one more game to play on Sunday, which could make or break their quarterfinal aspirations.
But as challenging as their most important game seems, Ratliffe hardly feels bothered by the pressure and is actually optimistic about their chances.
“I like our chances against anybody,” said the 13-year pro. “At the end of the day I believe in myself, I believe in my teammates, and I believe this coaching staff is gonna have a good game plan no matter who we play against.
“Either way, I look forward to playing against either one of those guys, either one of those teams. But at the end of the day, like I said, if I had to bet, I will always bet on my own team.”
