Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
On the eve of San Miguel Beer’s game against GlobalPort, Brian Heruela already knew that his opportunity will come on Wednesday night.
With Alex Cabagnot out due to an injury, Heruela was the next man up and he made the most out of his chance.
“For us, it was bad news because Alex is a major part of our team,” Heruela said after helping tbe Beermen fend off the Batang Pier for their fifth consecutive win in as many games. “On my part, I’m just thankful for the opportunity and the trust that coach Leo (Austria) and the rest of the coaching staff and management gave me. Guys off the bench we just stay ready and step up to the challenge.”
Heruela put on a show with 17 points, five assists and six steals off the bench.
He teamed up with June Mar Fajardo to lead an 18-0 blast in the last five minutes where San Miguel broke loose from a closely contested duel that had 44 lead changes.
“I’m proud of him. I keep telling him to always be ready and he stepped up tonight,” Fajardo said of Heruela, who he was teammates with in college at University of Cebu.
Cabagnot, who has a partial tear in his right foot, is expected to miss three to four weeks, according to San Miguel coach Leo Austria.
Heruela said Cabagnot’s absence means everyone must be ready to fill in the hole left by the crafty veteran, who is averaging 19 points, 6.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game this conference.
“Not just specifically for me but to all of the guys. We have to be always ready and we have to step up to the challenge. It’s a big void that Alex left so hopefully, we can able to cover it up until he gets back.”