Good play from these three could give Magnolia the depth it needs.
The Magnolia Hotshots have raced to a sterling 5-0 record in the PBA On Tour after demolishing the TNT Tropang Giga, 96-63, on Friday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
And, once again, the Hotshots got key contributions from newcomers David Murrell and Joseph Eriobu, who contributed 11 points and 14 markers, respectively.
Murrell, the reigning PBA Slam Dunk champ, was acquired in a trade with the Converge FiberXers along with big man Abu Tratter in exchange for shooter Adrian Wong and the Hotshots’ first round pick in the 2023 PBA Draft later this year. Eriobu, on the other hand, has long been a part of Magnolia’s 3x3 team but is now getting a chance to win over a roster spot in the big league.
Murrell, Tratter, and Eriobu are among the Hotshots coach Chito Victolero is counting on this preseason to keep veteran incumbents like Mark Barroca and Paul Lee from logging heavy minutes. So far, all three have acquitted themselves quite well, even as they continue to ease themselves into the Hotshots scheme of things.
“David, Joseph, and Abu are still adjusting to the system, still adjusting to the chemistry of the core players," said Victolero immediately after Magnolia’s masterful showing on Friday. "But the important thing is these guys are working hard, they are willing to sacrifice in order for them na makapasok dun sa sistema namin "
There is a long way to go, but Victolero seems pleased by the effort of his players—including his new recruits.
"We're playing good basketball,” Victolero noted. “But I told them this is our only preparation. And preparation is very vital for us. ‘Yan ang lagi kong sinasabi sa kanila."
With Murrell, Tratter, and Eriobu meshing well with the holdovers, Magnolia’s best basketball might be yet to come.