Magnolia and Rain or Shine clash in the PBA Season 48 Philippine Cup on Saturday at the Tiaong Convention Center.
Magnolia coach Chito Victolero couldn’t help but admire the way Beau Belga has been playing for Rain or Shine in the PBA Season 48 Philippine Cup.
It’s hard to blame him.
Since assuming the role of rookie slotman Keith Datu, Belga has been bustling for the Elasto Painters, averaging 17.78 points, 9.33 rebounds, and 5.44 assists.
“Naglalaro siyang parang All-Star ngayon. Parang 25 years old lang si Beau. Yung kumpyansa niya sobrang taas,” said Victolero of the Rain or Shine veteran.
His string of stellar outings, which he attributed to the confidence he gained from coach Yeng Guiao, was highlighted by a triple-double performance in a lopsided win over Converge.
[RELATED STORY: Beau Belga attributes scoring spree to confidence gained from coach Yeng Guiao]
Victolero echoed what most coaches and fans claimed on the heels of the Elasto Painters’ five straight victories for a 5-4 win-loss tally.
“That’s why they’re (Rain or Shine) winning; [they’re winning] because of Belga,” Victolero said.
That’s why the tactician is wary of the imposing Belga when Magnolia and Rain or Shine collide on Saturday, April 20 at the Tiaong Convention Center in Quezon Province.
“Titignan pa namin, I don’t know kung ano pa gagawin namin. Pero let’s see, tonight or tomorrow kung ano magiging game plan,” he said.
“But this is a very different game for us kasi they’re young, they run. They have the confidence na maka-compete sa kahit kaninong team sa PBA.”