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Given another more chance by the same coach who saw him experience the highest of highs in his career, Jeric Teng made the most of his newfound opportunity in GlobalPort.
Entering at the 3:39 mark of the first quarter, the former King Tiger immediately announced his entry to his new team, drilling three treys to help the Batang Pier seize early control en route to the 99-84 victory over TNT.
Though Teng failed to make another basket after that, his nine-point and two-rebound contribution proved to be enough.
“He played well,” said coach Pido Jarencio of Teng’s performance.
The 26-year-old guard, meanwhile, was satisfied for his decent showing in his first game back.
“I really wanted to come back and play here in the PBA because this is my dream,” he said.
What made his return more special was the presence of Jarencio, the same mentor who molded him in his heyday in UST, as they continue their history this time in the pro league in hopes of recapturing the magic.
“I never imagined that I will be playing again under coach Pido. I didn’t even expect to get a call from them in the middle of the season, so maybe, this is a blessing that I was given this opportunity,” he said. “It adds to my confidence and excitement that I’m under coach Pido again. I know his system and I know what he wants from me when I’m on the floor.”
Away from the game since being left unsigned by Kia at the start of the season, Teng admitted that he felt like a neophyte once again. But he knew better to use his experience to his advantage and make an impact for his new team.
“I played four years in the PBA, but it felt like my first game. But I had the experience, I learned my lessons when I was away from the PBA and those struggles became my motivation to improve,” he said
“I worked hard for this chance and I hope I continue playing well. I’m gonna make most out of this.”