December 30, 2017

Jeron Teng knows there's no substitute for winning

JERON Teng would rather take the win than the numbers.

The Alaska wonder rookie saw his fiery 28-point explosion go down the drain as the Aces suffered a second straight loss in the PBA Philippine Cup at the hands of TnT Katropa, 106-98, Friday night at the Cuneta Astrodome.

Teng hit 10-of-18 from the floor and added 10 rebounds, and five assists to cap what was so far, the most solid showing of a rookie in the young season, eclipsing the 20-point performance of Kiefer Ravena in NLEX's 115-104 win over Globalport on Christmas Day.

Unfortunately, the effort was not enough to help Alaska go 0-2 in the standings to end the year.

"No matter how good your game is, if you don't get the win it's nothing," lamented Teng, the fifth overall pick during the last rookie draft.

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If there was any consolation, the rookie guard said the Aces played better ball than during their debut loss against Magnolia.

"I think we showed some good stuff in this game, and from there, we'll work our way for next year," said Teng.

Individually, the former La Salle star also said he still has a lot to improve despite registering a career-high in only his second game as a pro.

"I am still getting used to sa system ng Alaska kasi may mga instances na medyo nawawala ako sa play namin, sa defense namin," he said.

"Siguro familiarity lang rin with the players and I think it just takes time for me to get really use to playing for Alaska."

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At the same time, he's very grateful for coach Alex Compton for giving full trust in him despite just being a rookie.

"Super grateful ako na nabibigyan ako ng chance to play like this. Pero alam ko yung binibigay sa aking playing time I really have to show up. I really have to contribute and help the team win."

Winning after all, is still the name of the game.