The real Mac Belo finally showed up on Thursday.
After a paltry four-point, three-rebound showing two days back, the 2016 Aspirants’ Cup MVP proved why he is one of the best amateur players today, lighting up in Phoenix’s 108-78 victory over Topstar ZC Mindanao.
Belo finished with 25 points along with three rebounds and three assists as the Accelerators took the top spot early in the conference.
“Binigyan lang ako ng kumpyansa nila coach, especially si coach Richie (Ticzon),” said Belo, as Ticzon called the shots for the ailing Eric Gonzales. “Sabi lang nila, tumira lang ng tumira para makuha ko yung rhythm ko.”
Having a loaded line-up has worked wonders for Phoenix with Ed Daquioag and Mike Tolomia taking the cudgels in Belo’s off-game.
The 23-year-old forward finally found his mark and helped the Accelerators battled back from an early 11-0 deficit against a pesky Aguilas crew.
“Kanina, slow start kami. Buti naman nakabawi kami, especially nung second quarter na nakuha namin yung momentum at nag-focus kami sa defense kaya naka-run at nakabalik kami sa game,” the Gilas cadet said.
With Phoenix tagged as one of the favorites this 2016 PBA D-League Foundation Cup, Belo knows it comes with added pressure as as every team will be out to deny the Accelerators.
“Nandoon yung tingin ng bawat team na kami nga yung team-to-beat kaya dapat ganun din ang turing namin. Kailangan talagang mag-focus kami every game,” he said.
Belo has been working overtime to keep up in practice with three different teams — from Far Eastern University, Gilas Pilipinas to Phoenix—but fatigue is far from his concerns.
“OK lang sa akin kasi masarap naman mag-basketball eh. Mas inisip ko yung kapakanan ng team.”