Blackwater needs a guy who can set a good example to the young team hoping to finally be on the PBA map after countless forgettable seasons. And that guy could be Troy Rosario.
In cultivating a winning culture, infusing a player of Troy Rosario’s calibre is a necessity.
That’s why Blackwater coach Jeff Cariaso is fortunate he has the four-time PBA All-Star at his disposal as he continues to build the team from the rubbles of one forgettable season after another.
“He’s our stud. He’s our main guy. How we do, how we perform, how well we do is on his shoulders,” said Cariaso, who also acquired the services of two-time MVP James Yap before the ongoing PBA Season 48 Philippine Cup.
[RELATED STORY: James Yap continues storied career with Blackwater]
So far, so good for the Bossing and Rosario.
As the Bossing climbed to a 2-0 start to the All-Filipino Conference, Rosario has also been balling for the team that only registered a single win in the Commissioner’s Cup.
Cariaso couldn’t help but tip his hat off to his prized ward, who has averaged 17.5 points, five rebounds, two assists in the team’s first two outings.
Against former team TNT on Saturday, March 2, Rosario finished with 20 points, six rebounds, and an assist as he kicked it up a notch following the absence of Rey Nambatac, who sprained his ankle in the opening period.
The amiable coach simply didn’t run out of good words to say about the former UAAP champion with NU Bulldogs.
“There’s one or two guys on almost all the teams that have that responsibility. For Blackwater, he is that guy,” added Cariaso after Blackwater’s 87-76 win over the Tropang Giga at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
But his contributions go beyond figures.
“I’m really proud of him. He’s a man that really helps us in regards to the culture that we want to build. His work ethic is tremendous. It’s beyond comparable,” said Cariaso.
“He’s been the stud that we need him to be and he needs to continue that,” Cariaso said.
It's still too early in the conference to be throwing compliments, though. After all, Blackwater has to continue building on this promising start.