IF there's a will, there's a way.
In order to maximize time, Phoenix did its own unique bubble training in Batangas City the past week.
The Fuel Masters decided to look for available houses nearby the training facilities where they practiced in order to save on travel time and at least, allow the team the benefit to scrimmage twice a day.
"The players rented houses for a week to save on travelling since 2x ang practice nila a day," said team manager Paolo Bugia.
Previously, the entire Phoenix team travelled mostly on a daily basis to practice in any of the three Batangas City venues assigned by the PBA for ballclubs to hold their scrimmages.
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But with the trip of going from Manila to Batangas and back-and-forth obviously consuming their time, the Fuel Masters decided it would be best for them to just rent a couple of houses nearby where they can stay together.
Health protocols under a bubble setup of course, were strictly observed, with players and coaches not allowed to go anywhere else other than their rented places and the playing venue.
The team would have its practice early in the morning, goes back to its rented home in the afternoon for some rest, and then return to the gym later for their second scrimmage for the day.
The plan not only allowed the Fuel Masters to have more time playing together and getting in shape for the coming 46th season of the PBA, it also gave them the opportunity to forge camaraderie and chemistry, having being together 24/7 even for just a week.
Coach Topex Robinson said the experience also served as bonding time for the team, adding that doing so was like being college all over again with players living and being housed together in a dorm.
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At least four other teams previously did the same bubble training camp but in other areas within Luzon.
TnT Tropang Giga and Meralco both went to Ilocos Norte for a two-week stay, while NLEX and Blackwater did it for a week in Clark, Pampanga and Tagaytay, Batangas, respectively. (RG)
