James Yap puts personal issues aside, helps Rain or Shine go 2-0

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/ INQUIRER.net

Regardless of what is happening to his personal life, James Yap still tries his best to keep his focus on the game whenever he enters the court.

“I always say that whatever personal issues I’m dealing with, I leave all of it at home. I’ve done that ever since and maybe, I’ve gotten used to it,” Yap said. “All I’m thinking is that the moment I get to the venue, we need to be professional and I have to be focused.”

That mentality has kept Yap in check and could also be seen as the reason for his good performance in Rain or Shine’s first two games in the 2018 PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

Through two games, the two-time PBA MVP is averaging 11.5 points for the Elasto Painters, helping his side gain early leadership in the standings.

But more than his scoring, coach Caloy Garcia lauded Yap for his effort on the defensive end.

“I know I need to develop my defense and that’s what I’m working out on,” he said.

“He told me, ‘Good defense.’ I answered, ‘Is that ok, coach?’,” he said with a laugh, obviously enjoying his new role not only as a sage for his younger peers but also, as a much-needed spark off the bench.

With big wins at the expense of Alaska and Ginebra, Yap aims to continue his solid play throughout the conference.

Rain or Shine goes for a 3-0 start against NLEX on Wednesday at Ynares Center in Antipolo.