NorthPort forward Arvin Tolentino.–PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—Arvin Tolentino showed why it’s his time now to lead NorthPort after starring in the Batang Pier’s gritty overtime win over Converge, 112-104, in the PBA Philippine Cup.
After starting in only one game last conference, Tolentino has been given the starring role by coach Bonnie Tan this conference and has delivered so far.
“Last conference, I think we only started Arvin for one game with the rest off the bench but now, I’m giving him the responsibility to be our leader,” said Tan on Sunday at Araneta Coliseum.
“This is really his time now and we’re giving him all the opportunities to step up and be our leader in this team.”
SCHEDULE: PBA Philippine Cup 2024
NorthPort’s Arvin Tolentino.–PBA IMAGES
Tolentino repaid Tan’s trust with his best game yet, nearly posting a triple-double with 31 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds to spearhead NorthPort’s comeback from 18 points down. He had 29 points, seven rebounds and three blocks in a loss to NLEX on Friday.
His unselfish play also led to three other Batang Pier scoring in double digits. Joshua Munzon had 17 points while Will Navarro and Cade Flores added 16 and 14 points, respectively.
“That’s what brought us back in the game. Earlier, we all got stagnant, that’s how we fell behind but in the second half, we found a way to share the ball and play together,” said Munzon as Northport improved to 1-1.