Luigi Trillo could only wish Akil Mitchell would get his rhythm back in time for Game 2 of the PBA QF between the Meralco Bolts and the Ginebra Gin Kings.
Meralco coach Luigi Trillo pointed to Akil Mitchell’s health as one of the factors that helped spell doom for the Bolts in their 100-92 loss to Ginebra in their PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinal opener on Wednesday, Feb. 5.
After all, the reinforcement looked like he was still groping for form after being sidelined for a couple of weeks owing to back problems.
“He hasn’t played, and you can see his rhythm: some of his shots were kapos. He’s not finishing as well as we want. Those things happen,” Trillo said of his prized ward.
Though Mitchell finished with 19 points, 14 rebounds, six assists, and three steals, Trillo said he was visibly far from his usual self yet.
“It’s hard. I wish we had a healthy Akil,” said the amiable mentor.
“We have to decide and see how his body is holding up. He’s OK a little bit, but he’s not the same guy,” he added when asked if Mitchell’s health was a concern.
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The Gin Kings took advantage of that, especially in the fourth period where they broke away for good.
“They took advantage of it. They’re banging him; they’re physical with him,” Trillo said.
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But make no mistake about it: Trillo was not making any excuses.
The Bolts simply need to be better in time for Game 2 on Friday, Feb. 7, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.
“It’s basketball. They (Gin Kings) are doing a good job. All credit goes to Ginebra today. No superstar [mentality] on that team. They kicked our ass in the last five minutes. We have to be better,” Trillo said.