Benjie Paras proud to see son Andre prosper in D-League

Andre Paras. PBA IMAGES

For PBA great Benjie Paras, watching his son Andre carve his own niche on the hard court is undoubtedly a gratifying feeling.

“I’m happy because when he came into the D-League, I told him there’s no pressure and he has to do whatever he can to help the team,” he said.

But through three games, the 21-year-old Andre has definitely been making his father proud, averaging 7.3 points, 18.0 rebounds, and 4.0 blocks for AMA Online Education this 2017 PBA D-League Foundation Cup.

READ: Andre Paras continues to make impact for AMA

The younger Paras racked up 10 points, 22 rebounds, and four blocks in the Titans’ 95-76 loss to Batangas on Thursday.

Benjie, the only rookie to win the MVP award in the PBA, was in attendance and was glad to see his son prosper with AMA. But the “Tower of Power” wants no credit for son’s solid performance so far.

“It’s all him. You can’t teach rebounds and blocks and he saw that it’s what he can contribute to the team. He’s also not forcing to take the shot,” he observed.

READ: Andre Paras delivers solid numbers in debut

The patriarch also doesn’t want Andre to listen too much on the comparisons to current PBA players like Marc Pingris, saying the 6-foot-4 banger is still miles away from today’s stars.

“You can make comparisons on his defense and rebounds. But he’s still far. Marc is more on post up and Andre has yet to show a post play,” he said.

Glad to see his son perform at this stage, the only advice Benjie could give to Andre is to stay the course and continue working hard.

“One of the things coaches look for from players is their hardwork. Andre said that as of now, this is like an unfinished business for him and he’s just taking it slow. He’s happy with what he’s doing right now and enjoying his time here,” he said.