Barangay Ginebra guard Scottie Thompson during Game 1 of the 2022 PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals at Mall of Asia Arena. PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—Barangay Ginebra’s peerless playmaker Scottie Thompson likened himself to a vehicle when asked about what has been a colorful year to his young pro career.
“Just as with cars, I guess you could say I’ve already logged significant mileage,” he told the Inquirer with a chuckle. “But it’s been really fun.”
Thompson, only 29, notched several milestones this 2022.
His Gin Kings won the Governors’ Cup back in the summer. A few weeks later, he became the Philippine Basketball Association’s Most Valuable Player. He later returned to the national team and became an integral part of the program. Now, he stands at the doorstep of bookending his year with another pro title as the crowd darlings play the visiting Bay Area Dragons in a best-of-seven duel.
“From a championship to Gilas, then back to playing for another crown now. I’m truly blessed to be able to do this job of mine which is playing the game that I love,” he said with a smile.
Thompson is playing only his seventh season in the pioneering pro league, which mathematically sets him up to earn more accolades should he stay healthy.
But he seems to have already figured that part out.
“(My journey) has been difficult, but it has been so rewarding,” the Digos City native said. “So rest has become non-negotiable.”
“As much as possible, whenever I can get extra sleep, I really go for it. I even actually talked my wife and begged off from (holiday) shopping,” Thompson said with a smile.
“So far we’ve been handling it well. Rest remains crucial for me. Especially sleep,” he went on.
Thompson’s impeccable play has put him among the frontrunners for the Best Player of the Conference, racking up 32.1 statistical points, just second behind the 33.9 of NorthPort guard Robert Bolick.
He went on to shore up his bid on Christmas Day, putting up 14 points and nine rebounds and six assists in the crowd darlings’ 96-81 victory against Bay Area at Mall of Asia Arena.