Prior to the start of the PBA Governors’ Cup finals between Alaska and San Miguel, we previewed Sonny Thoss as the x-factor for the Aces as his toughness inside in containing June Mar Fajardo will be needed.
Turns out, he is giving extras for the Aces on both ends of the floor.
Averaging only 3.5 PPG and 2.9 RPG in the elimination round, Thoss increased his numbers to 13 PPG and 9 RPG in two games in the championship round.
He is not only giving the Aces an extra body to try and push Beermen giant June Mar Fajardo out of his comfort zone, but his post-up game is also giving the Aces additional offense.
In a series where Alaska — now down 0-2 after dropping Game 2, 95-103 Sunday — will rely on its strength as a collective whole, Thoss is keeping them competitive even at a disavantage in size.
“All I am trying to do is to be aggressive. That is what my teammates do. This is the finals, nothing else comes after,” Thoss said. “I am just trying to help my teammates. I struggled in the conference but the least I can do is to come out strong.”
“We have to get our mindset ready and get ourselves ready. They have to win two more games so it is not over yet. We try to tke focus on one game at a time.”
Thoss knows his job in stopping three-time Best Player of the Conference and reigning Most Valuable Player Fajardo will not be easy, and is wary of the vast improvement put up by the Cebu native.
But when on the floor, Thoss’ mindset is just trying his best and making a difference.
“He is an all-around player. He knows how to use his weight, he has a jumpshot, post moves, and he will always be a big factor for them. I just try to do whatever I can to contain him. He is not an MVP for nothing. He is talented. He is a big force out there.”
