It’s been so long that Anthony Semerad cannot remember the last time he played the way he did on Wednesday in an all-important affair for NLEX.
The Fil-Aussie bruiser had the hot hand for the Road Warriors, turning in 23 points on a 64-percent clip from the floor – including 5-of-10 from deep. And he helped his side survive Meralco, 81-80, to stay alive in the 2021 Philippine Cup.
Per league stats chief Fidel Mangonon III, that’s his highest output since a career-high 24 on Aug. 14, 2016 in a 126-123 2OT win over, coincidentally, the Bolts in the Commissioner’s Cup. Back then, though, he was still with GlobalPort.
“It’s been some time now,” said Semerad moments after the thrilling victory at the Don Honorio Ventura State University Gym in Bacolor, Pampanga.
For the 30-year-old, he only has head coach Yeng Guiao to thank. He said that the champion mentor has been instrumental not just in regaining his confidence, but in expanding his game as well.
“I’m just happy that Coach Yeng… He’s helped develop my game,” said Semerad, who became a Road Warrior back in February of last year following a complicated three-team trade centered on big man Poy Erram.
“I can play all around now, I’m developing into the four, three, two spots. So I’m just… I feel like I’m getting my confidence back again, and I’m very grateful for him.”
Such an outing definitely serves as a huge morale-booster for the seven-year pro, who’s had quite what he called a ‘crazy’ stretch in the past few weeks.
He actually had to leave the Pampanga semi-bubble earlier this month following the birth of his first child by actress Sam Pinto. Then he missed NLEX’s game versus Blackwater last September 16 due to a bruised hip.
“Yeah, it’s been crazy,” he said. “As you know, my wife, she gave birth, so I had to leave and help her out with that.
“I’ve had no sleep, but I guess the bubble has been good, because you know, if I was at home I would have to stay up and look after the baby. Ao at least I can just focus here and give my all,” he added.
Still, Semerad did not make Wednesday all about himself. He also tipped his hat to rookie – and fellow Bedan – Calvin Oftana.
After all, his performance would’ve gone for naught had it not been for the third overall pick. Oftana made the game-winning layup with 6.1 seconds left.
Photo by PBA Images
“I’m just proud of our rookie Calvin. He stepped up and yeah, I’m really happy,” he said. “Calvin is just playing great. I’m so happy for him.
“His confidence is only gonna go higher and higher, so expect more from him.”
