Felix Lemetti has been a steady presence for Rain or Shine in its first three games in the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup.
Not a few were shocked when Rain or Shine tabbed a little-known Felix Lemetti in the first round of the PBA Season 49 Rookie Draft.
But if there is anything fans have learned about Elasto Painters coach Yeng Guiao over the past decades apart from his tough-love approach on his wards, it is that he has always had an eye for talent.
It seems Guiao made the right decision.
Felix Lemetti showcases his mettle for Rain or Shine. | Photo (c) RM Chua
The Fil-Swedish playmaker has been steady for Rain or Shine in its first three games, with his best game coming against no less than Brgy. Ginebra San Miguel at the Candon City Arena in Ilocos Sur last Aug. 24.
[RELATED STORY: PBA: Felix Lemetti comes up big in clutch as Rain or Shine edges Ginebra on the road]
He scored 10 of his 13 points in the final seven minutes of action, with his last three-pointer over the outstretched arms of Justin Brownlee capping a searing 14-2 rally and proving to be the dagger in the 73-64 win.
Lemetti, who also played for NCAA Division 1 team Omaha Mavericks where he averaged 7.1 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.9 assists, admitted he made the conscious effort to prove to himself worthy of the No. 8 overall pick.
“Yeah, of course, I want to prove myself. I feel like it’s most important for me to prove it to myself first that I’m a first-round pick, that I can play at that level and I’m worthy of being picked No. 8,” Lemetti said after Rain or Shine’s 124-105 win over NLEX on Wednesday, Aug. 28.
“If I can keep doing that and keep proving it to myself, then, hopefully, everyone else can see my worth as well.”
The 6-foot-1 playmaker has been instrumental in Rain or Shine’s 3-0 start in Group B action of the ongoing Governors’ Cup.
[RELATED STORY: PBA: Rain or Shine waylays NLEX to stay unscathed in Group B play in Governors' Cup]
And Lemetti plans to keep it that way and get better day in and day out.
“For me, I feel [it’s] just staying consistent. Whenever I come in, provide energy, provide shot making, playmaking,” Lemetti said.
Lemetti will take that some major role when the Elasto Painters shoot for a fourth straight win against Phoenix on Friday, Aug. 30.
[RELATED STORY: PBA: Rain or Shine shoots for perfect record vs Phoenix, Ginebra builds momentum vs Blackwater]
The match is set at 5 p.m. at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.