Ryukyu Golden Kings’ newest recruit Carl Tamayo. –EASL PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Despite being benched in his supposed 2022-23 B.League debut, Carl Tamayo remained patient knowing it’s all part of the process of his first professional stint with the Ryukyu Golden Kings.
The former University of the Philippines star, who made his debut for Ryukyu in the East Asia Super League Champions Week, did not see action in what could have been his first game against Kai Sotto since high school.
But even though Tamayo was not fielded, the Golden Kings still took down the Hiroshima Dragonflies and spoiled Sotto’s debut with an 86-78 victory on Wednesday at Okinawa Arena.
“I understand coach Dai (Oketani), you need to gain his trust to be able to play on the court,” said Tamayo shortly after the game.
Tamayo knows that B.League is way different from the EASL.
“B. League has three imports and they’re really good players. I haven’t had a chance to play my first B. League debut but you know, it’s just part of it, part of the process, just keep working hard,” he said.
The 6-foot-7 forward vows to keep on working hard to earn his spot in Ryukyu’s rotation.
“I’ll just keep on working hard so I’ll be prepared if coach Dai needs me. I’m just happy that we won the game,” Tamayo said.
“I think the team played really well. We keep our composure. The game plan that the coach told us, my teammates really did well. They were focusing on a game plan defense, especially on transition defense. I think that’s the key to the win. We had good ball movement and made those shots,” he added.
Tamayo was glad to feel the energy of their home crowd and see and catch up with his Gilas teammate Sotto.
“I felt the energy in the arena. The fans really give a boost for my teammates to work hard and to get going,” he said.
Tamayo and the Golden Kings, who hold a 30-9 record, will face Ray Parks Jr. and the Nagoya Diamond Dolphins next Wednesday.