Cyrus Baguio. PBA IMAGES
Cyrus Baguio was the subject of a surprise deal between Alaska and Phoenix where the 13-year veteran and three-time champion was sent to the Fuel Masters for picks.
After riding the bench in Phoenix’s opening day loss to Meralco, the veteran got way more playing time against defending champion.
Baguio, who was on the floor for 36 minutes, admitted he still has to adjust to the system of Vanguardia.
“Tingin ko marami pang adjustments lalo na parang nabigla ako sa playing time, medyo mahaba ang playing time ko,” said Baguio, who practiced with Phoenix for an hour on Thursday.
“Siguro gusto rin makita ni coach na yung kumpiyansa, siguro yun ang iniisip niya, magka-kumpiyansa ako sa team and mag-gel ako sa mga teammates ko.”
Baguio played the facilitator for the Fuel Masters as he put up 13 points and dished out nine assists.
But even Baguio’s presence as a starter wasn’t enough to lead his new team to victory as the Beermen came alive late and trumped Phoenix, 124-113.
Phoenix held San Miguel at bay in the latter parts of the third quarter with a 91-81 lead at the 4:25 mark, but AZ Reid exploded for a personal 11-0 run that ended in the fourth to give the Beermen a 100-93 lead.
It was all the defending champion needed to cruise to the win in its quest for a repeat title.
Baguio said the Fuel Masters need to learn how to clamp down of defense down the stretch.
“Lamang na kami kanina eh, pero dapat pag-igihan pa namin ang depensa namin,” said Baguio, whose team allowed San Miguel to score 27 points in the fourth. “Nag-relax kasi kami.”