Photo by Tristan Tamayo/ INQUIRER.net
San Miguel coach Leo Austria isn’t really known for putting much responsibility on his bench as he prefers to use a short rotation and maximize the minutes of his starters.
But when push comes to shove, just like in Game 2 of the 2017 PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals when the Beermen found themselves on an early 17-0 hole against TNT, he knew he had to make changes.
“We had a bad start, and who gave us the bad start but our starters. So I have to pull out from my bench. That’s why I’m so thankful because they gave enough energy to boost our defense,” said Austria.
Leading the bench mob was Arwind Santos, who kept San Miguel afloat early, dropping eight of his 16 points in the first period.
“The team badly needed it. I came in and we didn’t have any score, so I thought we couldn’t do anything but to show what we can do. We were already tired standing there and cheering from the sidelines. I’m just thankful that we’re able to close in before the end of the first quarter,” he said.
Santos’ excellent sniping opened the floodgates for San Miguel’s offense en route to a 102-88 win to equalize the championship series to one game apiece.
After his huge night, the Kapampangan forward said the game was a proof that Austria can lean on his bench with guys Brian Heruela, Ronald Tubid, Gabby Espinas, and the others who are capable of carrying the load as well.
“Actually, I’m just thankful for my teammates. Sometimes, I have to admit that I’m not happy with the limited minutes that I have because I know I can help the team more. It’s still far before we can say I’m already past my prime, so maybe, this is one of the proof that I still can contribute,” he said.
Santos also urged Austria to trust his bench more in the coming games.
“He should try us, trust his second unit because we’re just there. In the end, you can’t just lean on your first five. You need to have that second five.”