The Tropang Giga may have found themselves a gem in Aurin.
From barely getting minutes in the early part of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup to now being hailed as the PBA Player of the Week, rookie Kim Aurin has proven to be a vital piece for the TNT Tropang Giga.
Amid TNT’s injuries woes this conference, Aurin has stepped up to the plate to deliver timely baskets for the Tropang Giga, especially during the crucial win against the Phoenix Fuel Masters.
Aurin finished with 18 points, helping TNT to pull off a 116-96 win over Phoenix to book the last quarterfinals berth in the conference.
For his effort, the former University of Perpetual Help star was hailed as the PBA Press Corps-Pilipinas Live Player of the Week for the period January 10-14, becoming the first rookie this season to be recognized for the citation.
Coach Jojo Lastimosa had nothing but praises for the 26-year-old guard, who was initially drafted 34th overall by Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, but was then dropped from the team.
TNT eventually picked him up and signed a six-month contract.
"I think he deserves all the minutes he's getting right now,” said Lastimosa. "Now we're looking at a guy who's probably going to play a little bit more. He deserves what he is getting right now."
The Tropang Giga will be hoping that Aurin can deliver another stellar performance as they face the twice-to-beat Magnolia Hotshots in the quarterfinals which is set on Wednesday, January 17, 4 p.m. at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.