Rhodes loving the challenge of trying to stop Smith

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/ INQUIRER.net

Frustrated in Game 1, Charles Rhodes is now speaking on a different tone as San Miguel found a temporary solution to the problem that was Joshua Smith.

The Beermen ganged up on the TNT reinforcement whenever the behemoth got the ball in the post, and they were successful in making the burly import uncomfortable, limiting him to just 11 points, six boards, and five dimes in the 102-88 Game 2 San Miguel victory.

“That was the gameplan, for me to just try and make him do things he was uncomfortable with. We succeeded with that,” he said.

Rhodes shared that the Beermen truly welcomed the challenge of stopping the gigantic Smith after that dominant 21-point, 9-rebound showing in Game 1.

“It’s fun actually because you know, it’s a challenge. Because he was so big and strong, it was actually fun for me,” he said.

Though the mercurial reinforcement’s offense took the hit, mustering only seven points in the game, his job on the defensive end was exceptional as he hauled down 11 rebounds and four blocks.

Rhodes shared that he’s fine with the dip in his points knowing the capability of his battle-tested supporting cast.

“I let my locals do the scoring. I think my gameplan was more of let my locals score and get them involved instead of me. I need to get involved on defense, and It feels great. When you don’t have to score, it feels great and all you have to do is defend. It feels great especially for me. I’m very happy with how I played because I think I did a great job at that,” he said.

With the Beermen seemingly finding a solution after two games, Rhodes is upbeat that the momentum is with his team side as they gear up for Game 3 on Sunday.

“That’s our gameplan, to come here and play San Miguel basketball,” he said. “Last game, we didn’t do that and we let them take us out of rhythm and our style of play. We just got to continue this every game.”