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Garvo Lanete finally showed on Saturday night why he was brought in by Meralco last conference.
The Bolts acquired Lanete in a four-team deal two months ago, but the second-year guard only played for a game due to an injury.
But in Meralco’s opening game in the 2017 Governors’ Cup, a healthy Lanete gave his new team a preview of what he’s capable of after sparking a 107-78 blowout of Blackwater.
“I’m happy that I had a good first game, but hopefully, I can be consistent,” said Lanete.
Lanete scored 12 of his 15 points in the first half and made all of his baskets from downtown.
The former San Beda star gives Meralco more offensive options and creates opportunities for his teammates as well especially to import Allen Durham, who draws a lot of attention inside.
“Lanete being part of our team now gives us a lot of spacing, particularly round AD (Durham) who’s probably going to be double teamed majority of the time every time he catches the ball so having him here as an addition to our team, really helps our spacing and outside shooting,” Meralco head coach Norman Black said.
“When I got traded, they told me right away that needed a shooter and that’s the role I’m going to fill. I just hope I’ll be able to stay healthy,” Lanete said.