ABL: Standhardinger proud of Hong Kong team despite semis exit

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Christian Standhardinger’s only goal when he signed with Hong Kong Eastern for the 2018 ASEAN Basketball League was to help the squad become the league’s first ever back-to-back champions.

But Standhardinger’s dream ended after his team got swept by San Miguel Alab Pilipinas in the semifinals following a 79-72 loss in Game 2.

“With all my heart, I believed that we can win the championship,” he said after posting 16 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, and two steals. “Me personally, I feel like we could have won the whole thing.”

It was a tough pill to swallow for the Fil-German big man, who carried big expectations after a stellar showing for Gilas Pilipinas last year.

Averaging 22.8 points and 11.9 rebounds, Standhardinger has established himself as a frontrunner for the end of season awards, with some already pencilling him as the ASEAN Heritage MVP.

All of that, though, are just secondary to Standhardinger, who puts his team first over individual success.

“I am proud to be part of the team, of Hong Kong Eastern. This team is great. I have new brothers, I have a coach who’s a great coach and more importantly a great human being. Everything was professional and it was a family,” he said.

The 28-year-old Standhardinger also shunned questions about what the future holds for him, specifically his next journey with San Miguel in the upcoming 2018 PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

“I’m not gonna talk about myself or my future career. If you want to talk to me about my team, then I’ll answer, but if you want to talk about myself, then I won’t answer. I say that will all due respect,” he said.

Even in defeat, Standhardinger showed great character as he reaffirmed his commitment to winning and kept his sight on the task at hand rather than what lies beyond.

“With a heavy heart, I continue my journey,” he said.