RJ Abarrientos solid in KBL season debut, Rhenz Abando sits out

Ulsan Hyundai Mobis Fevers’ RJ Abarrientos. –KBL PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—RJ Abarrientos had a triumphant regular season debut in the Korean Basketball League on Saturday.

Abarrientos displayed his all-around game to help the Ulsan Hyundai Mobis Fevers beat the Suwon KT Sonic Boom, 85-76, in the season opener.

The former Far Eastern University ace picked up where he left off in the KBL preseason, collecting 13 points, seven rebounds and seven assists with a steal to boot.

Gaige Prim led Ulsan with 17 points and 13 rebounds.

But while Abarrientos shone, his fellow Filipino import Rhenz Abando will have to wait for his time.

Abando sat out Anyang KGC’s 88-75 victory over the Seoul SK Knights on Saturday.

Anyang coach Kim Sang-sik said Abando had to rest due to an injury, which wasn’t clearly specified but doesn’t appear to be that serious as the athletic swingman is only expected to miss two games.

Omari Spellman, who had stints with the Atlanta Hawks and the Golden State Warriors in the NBA, powered Anyang with 27 points and 14 rebounds.