TNT star Jayson Castro believes Ginebra rookie RJ Abarrientos is a superstar in the making.
TNT superstar Jayson Castro gave Ginebra rookie RJ Abarrientos a rude welcome in the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup Finals last Sunday, October 27.
In the third period of the best-of-seven series opener, Castro dropped 12 of his 14 points on the nephew of PBA legend Johnny Abarrientos.
The Tropang Giga eventually triumphed, 104-88.
Post-match, the young Abarrientos recognized the need for him to learn more while raining praises for Castro, who happens to be his idol.
[RELATED STORY: RJ Abarrientos admits there's more to learn after getting schooled by idol Jayson Castro]
When told about Abarrientos’ remarks after TNT once again emerged victorious via a Game 2 96-84 verdict Wednesday, Oct. 30, Castro answered in true Jayson Castro fashion.
Ever humble, the two-time Best Point Guard in Asia returned the praise.
“Mas magaling siya sa akin. Kung makikita ninyo 'yung rookie year ko saka rookie year niya, sobrang mas high level pagka-rookie niya,” Castro said.
“Given na 'yun kasi nakita naman natin si RJ, sobrang galing talaga, hindi lang dito kung hindi pati sa Korea. Siya pa nga 'yung naging Rookie of the Year (sa Korean Basketball League), 'di ba?”
RJ Abarrientos faces off with his idol, Jayson Castro, for the second time in the PBA on Wednesday, Oct. 30. | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports
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Castro, who sustained his vintage performance from Game 1 with his nine points, three rebounds, seven assists and one block for Game 2, said Abarrientos’ time will come.
Perhaps sooner than later.
“For sure, maraming pahihirapan 'yung bata na 'yun after two to three years, kung paano niya i-dominate 'yung guard position. Kasi ngayon pa lang makikita mo, lalo against San Miguel series nila,” Castro said.
“Sobrang thankful din ako kasi 'yung respect na ganoon sa mga rookie as a veteran.”
The two will face each other again in Game 3 on Friday, Nov. 1, with the Tropang Giga aiming for a pivotal 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven finale.