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Nards Pinto and Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings. – MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Eager to step up for the depleted Barangay Ginebra, Nards Pinto is maximizing his PBA On Tour stint to improve his game and prepare himself for the regular season.

After losing their first two games, Pinto led the Gin Kings to their first preseason win over Phoenix, 95-89, on Wednesday at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

The court general led the way with 22 points, seven assists, four rebounds, and two steals, joining hands with holdovers Aljon Mariano, Raymond Aguilar, and Jason David to stop a two-game skid from San Miguel and Magnolia.

“For us who are left in the line-up, this is an opportunity to grow, improve our game, and show our talent,” said Pinto in Filipino shortly after the game.

With Ginebra assistant coach Richard Del Rosario ruling out stars Scottie Thompson, Jamie Malonzo, Japeth Aguilar, and Christian Standhardinger for the duration of the PBA On Tour, Pinto is determined to take charge.

“As coach Richard said, no one will help us but ourselves this preseason,” he said. “It’s an opportunity to grow and improve our game this On Tour so when we play in the regular season we will be able to help the team.”

Pinto said the Gin Kings are staying patient with their progress as they deal with a depleted roster, reinforced with their 3×3 players.

“The coaching staff’s target for us is to do better every game. We played bad in the first game. Then the next game, we improved but still fell short in the last three minutes. This time, we finally got our game. Our main goal here is to do better every day.”

Pinto also lauded their 3×3 players Kim Aurin, Ralph Salcedo, Louis Cu, and Donald Gumaru, who have been pushing them to the limits in practice.

“Our 3×3 players are doing well. They make things harder for us in practice. Coach Richard always scolds us because they are playing well and pushing us to improve. This is also a good opportunity for them and us, holdovers, to improve together,” he said.

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