Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Meralco’s Bong Quinto may not be getting the fanfare as compared to other prized rookies, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t capable of creating noise like his blue-chip batchmates.
Bolts head coach Norman Black has high praise for Quinto, describing his versatile guard as the team’s glue guy and is someone who’s perfectly happy doing the little things for the group’s success.
But when needed to, Quinto has the tools to put up the numbers and he did just that on Sunday collecting 13 points on 50 percent shooting and five rebounds in a 101-77 dismantling of Barangay Ginebra in the PBA Governors’ Cup.
“Every game I always maintain my focus and of course in practice,” said Quinto in Filipino. “I’m focused during practice and I do what the team needs me to do.”
Meralco relies largely on import Allen Durham while local stars Raymond Almazan, Baser Amer, and Chris Newsome provide the hulking reinforcement ample support.
Quinto, the second pick in the second round of the 2018 draft, is perfectly satisfied with being one of the role players of the team and it’s that kind of attitude that has made him an asset that turned his PBA dreams into a reality.
“This is my dream of playing in the PBA and I’m thankful that Meralco gave me a chance,” said the former Letran Knight. “Coach Norman trusted me and I will show everyone my talent and that I belong in the league.”
“People will say I’m small because of my height but I’m still here and I’m performing well. I take the negativity as a challenge to show that I belong here and I can help my team.”