Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
JR Quiñahan admits he felt weird playing against coach Yeng Guiao on Friday.
“Nakakapanibago lang na nasa kabila si coach (It was a new feeling that coach is on the opposite side.),” he said.
Their new teams battled for the first time with GlobalPort topping NLEX, 110-96. Quiñahan’s squad improved to a joint second place and pushed Guiao’s side down the cellar anew.
The Cebuano big man got 18 points and seven rebounds in the win against his former coach as he helped the Batang Pier move up to a 5-3 card.
Quiñahan shared that he tried to shake Guiao’s hand after the game but failed as the coach made a quick exit after the Road Warriors’ frustrating loss. But he understands it’s all business, admitting he still gets a chance to talk to the fiery mentor from time-to-time.
“We’re texting,” he said.
Admittedly missing Guiao’s tough love, Quiñahan offered advice to NLEX, saying they shouldn’t be discouraged with the mentor’s harsh words.
“It’s normal. If he shouts at you, at least he loves you. Him yelling is his way of showing that he cares.”
Under the fiery mentor for so long, Quiñahan and Guiao parted ways in the offseason when the mentor went to NLEX while the Cebuano big man was traded by Rain or Shine to GlobalPort.
Moving on, Quiñahan is happy that he’s become a vital cog in the Batang Pier’s campaign this 2017 PBA Philippine Cup, as the team remains in the running for that coveted top two spot.
“We want every game to be important. We’re aiming to get to the top if we’re lucky. For us, you just have to follow coach’s system. There’s no jealousy here and we’re just helping each other.”
GlobalPort faces San Miguel next Saturday in Lapu-Lapu City in Cebu.