In seven games, fourth-year Jose Rizal University Heavy Bomber Teytey Teodoro has yet to do his trademark gun-slinging pose.
After averaging 15.6 points on 38 percent shooting a season ago, the 23-year old’s numbers are down this season, with norms of 13.1 points on 36.3 percent shooting in 24.2 minutes of action. Though it’s tough for head coach Vergel Meneses to admit, his ace has been struggling so far this season.
“Actually he’s struggling,” disclosed Meneses after JRU’s 81-53 win against Saint Benilde last Friday. “[Kailangan] Bigyan ko ng chance yung iba.”
With Teodoro in a slump thus far, it gave the PBA legend a chance to tinker with his line-up. Student-athletes like Ervin Grospe, Jed Mendoza, and Abdul Sawat were able to heed their coach’s call, helping the Heavy Bombers reach a 4-3 slate with two games still remaining in their first round campaign.
With teammates who can step up for him, Meneses is hoping that Teodoro can be more of a five-star floor general to his teammates — just like what last season’s assist leader Jiovani Jalalon had done for the Arellano Chiefs a year ago.
“Sabi ko nga sa kanya, kailangan ma-adapt niya kung ano yung para sa team kasi kailangan niya yung mga teammates niya to open up for him,” the Aerial Voyager recalled telling Teodoro, who is averaging just 1.6 dimes per contest. “Every time na siya lang yung bola, tas wala ng kumpansya yung kasama, mahihirapan kami.
“He should play na parang to involve mga teammate niya kumbaga para bang Jalalon – yung facilitator ka. Make your teammates better.”
And Meneses is doing this not only for his team’s goal of reaching the Final Four, but also for Teodoro’s dream of entering the pro ranks.
“Nandito lang naman ako to guide him.
“Kasi yun trabaho ng coach. Kung ano weaknesses ng player, yun ang sasabihin mo. Yun ang role mo,” Meneses declared.
