Mikey Williams didn’t have his usual scoring numbers in the series opener of TNT’s Honda PBA Philippine Cup semifinal affair with San Miguel, Sunday.
Averaging 17.7 points prior, the Fil-Am guard was just limited to seven points. And that, according to Tropang Giga head coach Chot Reyes, is because none other than two-time Defensive Player of the Year Chris Ross was guarding him.
“Well, he’s being guarded by I think the best defensive guard in the league – Chris Ross. We knew that he would struggle,” he said.
But as they say, there’s more to the game than putting the ball through the hoop. And the former G-League veteran showed just that.
Williams delivered in other facets. He collected a team-high eight rebounds and dished out six assists in nearly 41 minutes of play.
“The important thing for Mikey and every player on our team,” said Reyes, “it’s really not about scoring. It’s ‘What can I contribute to this team?’ And Mikey contributed with his rebounding and his assists, and that’s important.”
The 29-year-old didn’t really have to worry much about scoring as his teammates took care of that, led by Roger Pogoy with 23 points.
Then there’s also veteran playmaker Jayson Castro with 16 points on top of his six boards and six dimes. The frontcourt tandem of Poy Erram and Troy Rosario, meanwhile, finished with 15 and 14 markers, respectively.
And the Tropang Giga left the DHVSU Gym with the pulsating 89-88 victory, which is the most important thing for the team.
“For us, all that matters is the W,” said Reyes.
“And so, if Mikey isn’t scoring, some other guys are scoring and picking it up. In the end, that’s what the team is all about.”
