PBA IMAGES
Coach Vergel Meneses’ words to his Jose Rizal University players are finally sinking in that even Tey Teodoro had the gall to unleash a shot reminiscent of the PBA legend’s heydays.
With the Heavy Bombers pulling away from Blustar Detergent late in the game, the 5-foot-7 guard contorted his body and nailed a jaw-dropping reverse layup against two Dragon defenders on the break.
“That’s what he gets from watching my CDs,” Meneses quipped.
Teodoro didn’t deny that the basket was a homage to his coach, saying, “That’s my Vergel Meneses shot.”
That basket came as Teodoro went on a personal 8-0 tear in the last two minutes to pull away JRU to a 75-64 victory over Blustar to start its campaign in the 2017 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup.
The 22-year-old sniper finished with 20 points on a 4-of-7 shooting from threes, to go with seven rebounds for the Heavy Bombers, who have begun their preparations for NCAA Season 93.
That kind of performance is what Meneses regularly wants to see from his players, especially from Teodoro.
“The holdovers have to provide the leadership because what they show in the offseason will continue once the collegiate season begins.”
Consider the message sent loud and clear.
Teodoro shared that he’s just seizing the opportunity, picking up valuable lessons here and there as the Heavy Bombers compete against more experienced competition.
“I’m just making the most of our time playing in this league. We’re still adjusting because there are newcomers in the team, but all I want is to compete and know how to play smart,” he said.
“I want to be the veteran presence for JRU for next NCAA season.”