Barangay Ginebra’s Arvin Tolentinoo goes for a layup against Meralco in Game 5 of the PBA Governors’ Cup Finals at Araneta Coliseum. PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—Virtually throughout the PBA Governors’ Cup playoffs, Arvin Tolentino got going on Sunday night, turning in an impeccable, two-way performance that helped Barangay Ginebra prevail over tough-as-nails Meralco 115-110 in Game 5 of the Finals.
The sophomore forward put up 16 points spiked with four rebounds and three steals in what turned out as a rebound performance from a laughable Game 1 performance where he also figured in an altercation with Bolts reserve Raymar Jose.
“I just let it go and did not really think about (the incident)” he told reporters on his way out of Smart Araneta Coliseum, shortly after the Gin Kings took a 3-2 lead in this championship series.
“(The team) never talked about it. Whenever someone asks me about it, I just kind of dodge it. It’s irrelevant now,” he went on.
All that’s in Tolentino’s mind now is just relishing the opportunity to be able to contribute again.
“First of all, I’m just glad we’re able to get this victory because this is huge for us,” he said. “That’s two straight in a best-of-seven series.”
“I shot well (tonight). Lucky,” he added.
Tolentino said he prefers not to get too high on his breakout performance. He’d rather focus on just staying ready for the crowd darlings who are looking to keep their lofty perch in this season-ending conference.
“Never thinking this is all about me. My mentality is to help the team. I now I need to prepare well to be of help to the team,” he said.
“It does not matter if I play or not. I’ll always be there to cheer my teammates on, help them every practice,” he added.
“So if given the opportunity, I’m prepared and ready to play well.”