Magnolia guard Mark Barroca. PBA PICTURES
MANILA, Philippines—There is no trophy for pulling off a perfect campaign in the PBA On Tour.
Completing a preseason sweep, however, would still mean something as far as Magnolia coach Chito Victolero is concerned.
“It will be an achievement. Like what I always tell them, this is the only bonus we can get from all the things we’ve been doing. We can give this to fans and our families,” said Victolero in Filipino after defeating Phoenix, 111-91, at San Juan Arena on Sunday.
“We know that the start of the regular season is still in October but this is a good thing. We’re able to build something,” he added.
The preseason has been a beacon of opportunity for the Hotshots’ role players with guys like Jerick Ahanmisi and James Laput showing up big after having just limited exposure last season.
It’s also served as a way for veterans like Mark Barroca and Jio Jalalon to stay in top shape before the real battle begins.
“Our goal, really, is to try and win every game but we also focus on the small things. We want to also win in aspects like hustle, execution and discipline because we know that we’re serious about this. This is a test of our practices.”
The biggest takeaway for Magnolia so far with only one game left is the development of the team’s chemistry.
“Our team has been building chemistry-wise with the addition of Abu (Tratter), Joseph (Eriobu) and David (Murrell). At least, we got built with them early, our team gelled up early but, again, we know this isn’t the real battle yet,” said Victolero.
“If other teams are not serious with this preseason, we are committed to it. We want to improve because we can’t afford to relax. We’re not a very talented or strong team.”
The Hotshots cap off their On Tour stint against the Terrafirma Dyip (4-6) on Wednesday at the same venue.
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