Robert Bolick: NorthPort anchor. —PBA IMAGES
Young NorthPort cornerstone Robert Bolick said he can accept losing, even saying that this slump could go on with the Batang Pier playing without an import in the PBA Governors’ Cup.
What the fiery guard could not accept, however, is being beaten black-and-blue.
“It’s been a struggle not having an import. Unfortunately, that’s how it is. There’s not much we can do about it,” he told a few reporters on the heels of a 108-82 rout at the hands of defending champion Barangay Ginebra on Friday.
Cameron Forte sat out the last two games because of a knee problem, and NorthPort management is reportedly looking for a replacement. But considering the pandemic restrictions, it would take a while before the Batang Pier could actually field their new one.
“[Playing handicapped] has become a part of the game [for us]. But we can’t lose like this. A blow out?”
That loss was particularly hard for Bolick to swallow since the first three defeats were very narrow. An average of 2.6 points, to be exact.
Bolick’s frustration was doubled because it was also the team’s first outing back at Smart Araneta Coliseum where the fans were finally welcomed back in attendance.
“I guess that’s the only positive to take away from this game,” he said. “It’s such a great feeling taking the court and seeing a lot of people.”
“It’s a great feeling that we’re finally getting back to normal. I would want to have pictures taken with fans, but it’s prohibited. Just wanted to, you know, give it back,” he went on. “It’s been a really great feeling. But at the same time, we lost, and that sucks the most,” Bolick added.