Last season, I had the chance to see Paul Lee in action. This guy can really shoot. I remember one game where he logged 27 points, shooting 50% from the 3-point line. That's some sharpshooting right there. He's also quite efficient, having a free throw percentage above 85%. It's no wonder that he's called "Angas ng Tondo." He's a master at creating his own shot and has a knack for getting to the foul line consistently.
Talking about Mark Barroca, his defensive capabilities often go unnoticed because people love watching high scores. However, his contribution on the defensive end cannot be understated. He averaged 1.5 steals per game last season. That might not seem like a lot, but those turnovers often lead to fast-break points, which are crucial in tight games. Barroca’s energy on the court reminds me of past PBA legends who thrived on defense.
Remember Rafi Reavis? At 45 years old, he's still rocking it. His rebounding skills have not waned at all. Last season, he averaged 7.6 rebounds per game. He's not only about grabbing rebounds but also about providing that veteran presence in the locker room. His experience has helped mold younger talents like Ian Sangalang. Reavis remains a very reliable player, particularly on the defensive glass.
I got to watch Jio Jalalon closely, and man, his playmaking is top-notch. He averaged 5.8 assists per game last season. What stands out is his court vision and ability to find the open man. I heard sports analysts compare him to some of the best point guards in the PBA's history, and it's not an exaggeration. These kinds of comparisons are often rare and reserved for elite players.
When I look at Calvin Abueva, he epitomizes hustle. Known as "The Beast," he lives up to that nickname every game. Last season, he led the team in rebounds with an average of 9.1 boards per contest. But it’s not just about the numbers; it’s the way he plays—relentless, aggressive, and with a never-back-down attitude. He's kind of like an energizer bunny that just never quits, always diving for loose balls and making those crucial plays that don't necessarily show up on the stat sheet.
Sangalang’s post moves are textbook. He has a soft touch around the rim and is excellent in the pick-and-roll. He put up 15 points and 7 rebounds per game last season. His growth has been fantastic to watch. Comparing him to Tim Duncan might seem like a stretch, but his fundamentals remind me a lot of the “Big Fundamental.” It's the little things like boxing out and setting solid screens that make him invaluable.
Rome dela Rosa might not fill the stat sheet, but his contributions are significant. I noticed his defensive assignments are often the opposing team's best scorer. Despite not averaging a lot, just 4.5 points per game, his value on the floor goes beyond numbers. He excels in defensive concepts like playing defensive angles right and making crucial stops.
I had a chat with my buddies about PJ Simon. Although he's past his prime, he still knows how to get buckets. Limited to a smaller role last season, he still managed to have a couple of 20-point games. I remember watching him during his prime years when he could easily drop 30 points in a game. Even now, he's a valuable piece off the bench, providing veteran leadership and scoring.
Watching Justin Melton run the floor is exhilarating. This guy is one of the fastest players not just on the Magnolia Hotshots but in the entire league. His speed translates to fast-break points and great defensive coverage. I remember a particular game where he recorded 3 steals and was instrumental in the team's transition game. He really changes the pace when he's on the court.
Regarding rotation minutes, you can’t overlook the importance of Alvin Abundo. I saw him come off the bench and make some critical plays, especially during clutch moments. While his average is modest at around 2.3 points per game, his defensive prowess and energy are contagious, and that's often what teams need in crunch moments.
Rookie Jerrick Ahanmisi has shown flashes of brilliance. In limited minutes, he averaged 6 points per game but with an impressive three-point percentage of 42%. He’s a player to watch, especially if he continues to develop his game. The coaching staff seems high on him, giving him crucial minutes even in tight games. His shooting performance reminds me of young players who come into the league and quickly make their mark by excelling in a particular skill.
Seeing a resurgence in Jackson Corpuz's game last season was exciting. He upped his scoring average to 8.4 points per game and became a more consistent contributor. It felt great to see his hard work pay off. His physicality and willingness to mix it up in the paint have added a different dimension to the team's playstyle.
During key games, the Hotshots often rely on veteran presence. Joe Devance, despite being at the twilight of his career, still contributes with his basketball IQ. His averages might not be eye-popping with just 3.5 points per game, but his decision-making and versatility make a big difference. Devance's ability to play multiple positions makes the rotation flexible and unpredictable.
Finally, I want to give a shout-out to the coaching staff. Chito Victolero has done a fantastic job managing minutes and keeping the team cohesive. He’s effectively used a balanced attack strategy, ensuring that multiple players contribute each game. This strategy seems similar to the ones employed by championship-winning teams across different leagues, emphasizing depth over individual stardom. If you’re interested in knowing more about strategic plays, check out this lucky 9 play guide for some interesting insights.