Robert Bolick hugs San Beda head coach Jamike Jarin. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Expect Robert Bolick to be where Jio Jalalon is on the floor.
That’s how Bolick has been successful in defending Arellano University’s crack point guard the past two games and that’s how it’s going as both teams are tipped to cross paths again.
“When I came here in the NCAA, my mind was only to stop Jalalon. Siyempre, kasi he’s the best point guard in amateur basketball,” Bolick said. “That’s my motivation.”
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On Tuesday, his motivation drove him to meet his goal.
Jalalon had measly 14 points on a woeful 4-of-17 shooting with Bolick as his primary defender. Jalalon’s stats were closely similar to his numbers four days ago when he scored as many points and went 5-of-17 from the field in a game that also ended in a loss to San Beda.
Overall, San Beda is 3-0 against Arellano and on a personal level, Bolick owns the same mark against Jalalon.
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Bolick is content having Jalalon’s number in their matchup, but he knows he can’t be complacent considering he is already foretelling a San Beda-Arellano duel in the finals.
“Personally, satisfied. I’m pretty sure we’ll play again. I’m pretty sure, he’ll come back stronger. He’ll watch the tape, but I’ll watch the tape too kung pano niya natira yun. I will stop him, no matter what.”
“Our confidence is high, but we shouldn’t be cocky. Tomorrow, it’s back to work again. For me, just stay in front of him. If he shoots a jumpshot, put a hand up. Make it hard for him. I’m not gonna say how. I cannot stop him, but just limit his production.”