PBA Finals: San Miguel’s Simon Enciso continues search for respect

San Miguel guard Simon Enciso celebrates during Game 5 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals against Magnolia.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

Simon Enciso made his first start in San Miguel’s PBA Commissioner’s Cup championship duel against Magnolia on Sunday. His father was also in the Smart Araneta Coliseum’s stands, watching him in his first-ever pro game. He was about to turn a year older, too.

But none of those were bigger than what truly drives the Filipino-American guard to play well.

READ: PBA Finals: San Miguel holds off Magnolia for 3-2 lead

“I feel like I haven’t gotten my respect,” he told the Inquirer in a candid chat after helping the Beermen to a 108-98 Game 5 victory and a 3-2 series lead over the Hotshots.

“I thought I was going to get some after winning one,” he added.

Enciso delivered 15 points—all of which came from three-pointers, backstopping top scorer Jericho Cruz who was just as hot from beyond the arc that night.

Personal triumph

The performance was some sort of a personal triumph for Enciso, who missed a big chunk of the tournament after having the bone spurs in his left knee removed.

The nine-year veteran, a starter for other clubs around the league before finding a home at San Miguel, said he was simply happy to nudge the club back to where it’s supposed to be.

READ: PBA Finals: Left open, Jericho Cruz torches Magnolia in Game 5

“I’m just happy that I can be there for my teammates and have a good game like this to get us back into the right direction,” he said of the effort that had San Miguel retaking control of the series.

Enciso shook his head and just shrugged when asked about what he thinks is the reason for not getting enough adoration for his fine play.

But he does know what he is supposed to do moving forward.

“I’ll just have to win more,” he said.