Suleiman Braimoh is embracing the challenge that comes with being an import for Meralco in the recently-opened PBA Season 48 Commissioner’s Cup.
With the likes of Allen Durham and Tony Bishop, the Bolts have grown into a contender over the past few seasons especially in reinforced conferences, and they surely want to stay that way in the ongoing tilt with the 34-year-old in tow.
“I embrace the challenge,” said ‘Su,’ who was brought in to take the place of first choice Ferron Hunt. “It’s fun. I love playing basketball at a high level.”
Braimoh immediately proved his worth as Meralco opened its season against Rain or Shine on Wednesday night at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.
The 12-year pro out of Rice played a major role in the 107-102 victory, finishing with 34 points, 14 rebounds, three assists, two steals, and two blocks.
“It was fun,” he said. “I enjoyed myself. I enjoyed my teammates. We got the win, that’s what I’m happy about.”
Head coach Luigi Trillo disclosed that Braimoh is yet to reach his usual game shape but he’s filled with much optimism about what the well-traveled big man can further bring to the Bolts moving forward into the tourney.
“He’s not yet in total game shape because he had a bit of a break but Su has been playing throughout every year, I think we have a good chance in terms of getting better with him. His basketball IQ is very, very high,” he said.
“He’s very encouraging and he’s also a leader. I mean he’s a vocal guy. The one thing that you have to do well here in the PBA I think is the imports, you see the quality that they have, and they’re counted on a lot.
“I think with Su, his value is the little things that you don’t see in the stat sheet. Sure, he scored. Sure, he rebounded. Sure, he was able to pass. But there are other things that make him a winner. We’re excited,” Trillo continued.
Braimoh, however, refuses to make it all about himself.
“As much as it is on me, and I embrace that, it’s a team game,” he said.
“Today, hopefully, is the beginning of something that we’re building,” Braimoh furthered.
“Everybody is chipping in, everybody is doing their part. I’m gonna do my best to do my part to not let my teammates down.”
