Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings’ Ralph Cu during a PBA Philippine Cup semifinals game against Meralco Bolts. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Ralph Cu kept showing his worth for the Ginebra Gin Kings in Game 1 of the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals over Meralco.
In 36 minutes of action, Cu showed why he was worthy of the minutes with 18 points built on six made triples with only one miss from rainbow country.
Despite playing more minutes than usual, Cu understood the memo and stepped up to the plate especially since Ginebra was without one of its main men in Jamie Malonzo.
READ: PBA: Ralph Cu brings ‘something different’ to Ginebra
“I’m up for the challenge. No matter how many minutes they give me, I’ll give my all so I stay ready whether they play me a lot or not,” said Cu at Mall of Asia Arena on Friday.
The La Salle product was also ecstatic after winning the series opener over the Bolts with their 92-88 victory.
Despite Friday just being the first game of a best-of-seven series, Cu understood how important the victory was especially since it gives the Gin Kings the momentum in the semis.
READ: PBA: Tim Cone has high praise for ‘very unique’ Ralph Cu
“Coach Tim (Cone) told us that Game 1s important because, of course, it gives us momentum. We’re very happy that we got this [win] but we have to move on and prepare for the next game.”
As of writing, Cu is posting norms of 9.1 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game.
Expect Ginebra to turn to Cu a bit more as Game 2 of their series with Meralco rolls on at the same venue on Sunday.