Greg Smith. PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—New import Greg Smith gave Rain or Shine a much-needed shot in the arm to snap its four-game losing streak in the PBA Governors’ Cup at Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday.
Struggling since the start of the tournament, the Elasto Painters may have found the reinforcement most suitable for them.
However, Smith admitted that there is a considerable amount of pressure, not just to fill in the role left by former import Michael Qualls, but also to notch wins as quickly as possible for a desperate Rain or Shine side.
“There’s a fair amount of pressure only because they brought me in to try to win. No disrespect to Michael or anything like that. We just want everyone to win. I’m somebody who’s probably as prideful as anybody and I want to win,” said Smith.
“There’s a fair amount of pressure every time you go and play because they expect you to do the right thing, right plays and of course, win. I will take that as I go,” he added.
Smith, who just arrived in the country on Friday, made a good account of himself with 38 points, six rebounds and five assists. said after debuting with 38 points, six rebounds and five assists. He shot 52 percent from the field including 5-of-8 from distance.
Coach Yeng Guiao said while Qualls was also capable of providing big numbers after averaging 26.5 points and 11.5 rebounds during his four-game stint, Smith proves to be the better fit for Rain or Shine.
“We appreciate what Michael did for us. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to win games (with him) but he produced the numbers. Really, the problem was locals getting involved. Greg is able to play the four comfortably and that’s the spot we need to fill up,” said Guiao.
“The problem was Michael was more comfortable playing in the three than the four so it’s a technical adjustment and I think that’s good for us,” he added.
The Elasto Painters hope to get a streak going with Smith on board when they take on Terrafirma on Thursday.