The PBA Commissioner’s Cup is in full swing, and a infusion of new faces and familiar names on fresh teams is already shaking up the landscape. As rookies, trades, and returning stars look to make their mark, the race for the playoffs is heating up. Let’s dive into how these roster shakeups are impacting the competition.
San Miguel’s Smart Additions
The biggest pre-conference move came from the San Miguel Beermen, who snagged sharp-shooting guard Juami Tiongson and versatile forward Andreas Cahilig. The additions aimed to address key issues for the perennial contenders.
Tiongson has delivered as a stabilizing playmaker and scoring threat, putting up 11.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 22.3 minutes per game. His 47.4% shooting from deep on 4.8 attempts per game has been a welcome weapon.
Meanwhile, Cahilig is carving out a role in a competitive wing rotation featuring Marcio Lassiter and Don Trollano. His 12-point debut showcased his ability to provide instant offense when called upon.
Austria’s Coaching Return
San Miguel also made waves by replacing head coach Jorge Gallent with the returning Leo Austria, who previously led the Beermen to multiple titles. Austria’s influence is already evident in his tightened rotations as SMB looks to regain its championship form.
There’s only 240 minutes divided by 14 [players]. Hindi puwedeng 20 minutes each player. It will take some time kung ano talaga ‘yung nasa rotation.
Leo Austria on optimizing his player rotations
Terrafirma’s Bright Spot
Amidst Terrafirma’s 0-6 start, veteran forward Vic Manuel has emerged as a consistent bright spot. Averaging 17.5 points and 4.3 rebounds on 53% true shooting, “The Muscle Man” is thriving with increased playing time and offensive responsibility.
Sobrang saya. Parang gigising ka ‘pag may game kayo, excited kang pumunta sa court kasi alam mong maglalaro ka.
Vic Manuel on his expanded role with Terrafirma
Manuel’s interior scoring and post-up efficiency have been vital for the Dyip. If he sustains this level of play, he could attract interest from playoff contenders seeking frontcourt depth down the line.
Rosario Reinforces Ginebra
Barangay Ginebra’s acquisition of athletic forward Troy Rosario doesn’t solve all their frontcourt issues, but it gives head coach Tim Cone a valuable inside-out threat that fits the triangle offense. Rosario’s off-ball cutting and interior seals have already made him an effective offensive weapon.
He’s doing great. He’s filling out all of the stuff that we don’t normally have on our team. In terms of ability, you see him seal and we get next to the basket.
Tim Cone on Troy Rosario’s seamless fit with Ginebra
In his first three games, Rosario averaged 11.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.0 assists while shooting 48% inside the paint. His ability to space the floor and finish inside bolsters Ginebra’s versatility as they aim for another deep playoff run.
Converge’s Promising Pieces
Coming off a successful Governors’ Cup, the Converge FiberXers retooled by adding first overall pick Justine Baltazar and scoring guard Jordan Heading. While it’s been an up-and-down 3-2 start, the potential of these acquisitions is undeniable.
Heading has flourished as a primary ball-handler, averaging 14.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 6.4 assists. His chemistry with import Cheick Diallo in the pick-and-roll has been a key source of offense for Converge.
Meanwhile, Baltazar is still finding his footing through two appearances. Despite modest numbers, head coach Aldin Ayo remains optimistic about the rookie’s upside and ability to contribute as he develops.
Lastimosa’s Impressive Debut
After missing the Governors’ Cup due to injury, Magnolia Hotshots rookie guard Jerom Lastimosa is turning heads in his first PBA conference. Through his first three games, he put up 17.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists on scorching 68.8% true shooting.
Lastimosa’s ability to efficiently create offense in the pick-and-roll, convert catch-and-shoot opportunities, and score in transition has made him an instant-impact addition for the guard-heavy Hotshots. Sustaining this level of play will be crucial for Magnolia’s playoff hopes.
Alas Aims for NLEX Resurgence
The NLEX Road Warriors are banking on the return of explosive guard Kevin Alas to boost their shot creation around star Robert Bolick. Coming back from multiple ACL surgeries, Alas is still finding his rhythm, but has shown flashes of his former burst.
Gusto lang namin siya i-break in. Despite the long absence, maganda naman ‘yung pinakita niya ngayon. When he gets to play more minutes, makakalaro naman sila ni Robert [Bolick] together.
NLEX head coach Jong Uichico on reintegrating Kevin Alas
Though he’s averaging just 6.8 points on 33% true shooting, Alas has remained effective in transition, generating 1.0 points per possession according to advanced stats. If he regains his form, an Alas-Bolick backcourt could be a handful for opponents.
A Fascinating Playoff Picture
As the Commissioner’s Cup rolls on, it will be captivating to monitor how these new faces and fresh team fits continue to influence the standings. Can San Miguel’s reloaded roster recapture their championship magic? Will Terrafirma escape the cellar on Manuel’s broad shoulders?
Rookies like Lastimosa and Baltazar are already showing promising glimpses of their talent. Veteran additions like Rosario aim to provide the missing piece for a title hopeful. And the returns of Alas and others from injury add even more intrigue to the playoff puzzle.
The beauty of basketball lies in the chaos of new beginnings. Amidst the flurry of roster moves and role changes, the Commissioner’s Cup is brimming with fascinating storylines. As the games continue, the stakes will only rise. This wide-open conference is shaping up to be a heart-pounding ride from start to finish.
