Ginebra head coach Tim Cone couldn’t believe it upon learning that Scottie Thompson ‘only’ has eight PBA career triple-doubles thus far.
No less than league stats chief Fidel Mangonon III said as much when the owner of 25 league titles wondered what the Kings’ record is on the times the reigning MVP tallied the rare feat, which he did with much ease back in college.
“He’s only had eight triple-doubles? I’m talking about career. Only eight triple-doubles in his career? Seems like a lot more than that,” Cone said.
According to the numbers guru, the crowd darlings are 6-2 on nights Thompson comes up with a trip-dub, including Sunday’s Governors’ Cup Finals opener.
(C) PBA Images
Cone is, of course, beaming with pride, saying that his star guard’s triple-doubles are ‘like a recipe for winning’ — and he’s definitely not wrong with that take, given their winning percentage when he does as much.
“It seems like every time he gets a triple-double, it’s like a recipe for winning. That means the ball is moving, that means the team is hustling, and that’s a good recipe for success,” said the 65-year-old mentor.
Thompson, however, said that he wasn’t aware that he finished with a triple-double as he and the team were locked in tight on defense.
“Honestly, unconscious ako. Talagang all out lang kami this Game 1. Aggressive lahat ng kung pwedeng maibigay, extra possession sa team,” said the 29-year-old native of Davao, who played for over 44 minutes — the most he’s had this conference.
“Naka-focus din kami super sa defense, especially yung guards nila, loaded guards — Mikey Williams, Jayson Castro. Kaming mga guards doon kami naka-focus sa kanila, to defend their guards. Bonus na lang ‘yun.“
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The 2023 PBA Governors Cup Finals is live-streamed on SMART Sports.
