PBA: Felix Lemetti hushes ‘very early’ ROY talks, wants title

Rain or Shine rookie Felix Lemetti is off to a good start in the PBA Governors’ Cup.–PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—It’s too early to pick the favorite to win the PBA Governors’ Cup title and premature to determine a frontrunner for this season’s Rookie of the Year.

It is, however, undeniable that Rain or Shine’s Felix Lemetti is part of the early conversation for ROY.

“It’s very early,” said Lemetti with a slight giggle after helping the Elasto Painters rack up another win on Tuesday.

“Obviously, it’d be very nice to get that recognition but it’s only been six games so I’m just trying to improve.”

Six games may be a small sample size but Lemetti has been a big reason for Rain or Shine’s success this conference where the Elasto Painters currently lead Group B at 5-1.

READ: PBA: Rain or Shine rebounds with rout of Phoenix

The unheralded Fil-Swedish guard was a surprise first-round pick in the draft after being taken eighth overall by the Painters two months ago.

But Lemetti has shown why Rain or Shine plucked him right away.

The 25-year-old had another solid outing for the Painters on Tuesday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium, with 12 points built on two 3-pointers and a perfect 6-of-6 shooting from the free throw line in their 122-107 drubbing of the Phoenix Fuel Masters.

Amid too-soon talks about ROY, Lemetti is keeping his priorities in check.

READ: PBA: Felix Lemetti helps Rain or Shine shut down Ginebra

“I’m not focused on that [ROY award], I just want to keep winning and hopefully, try to win a championship, that’s the biggest goal,” said Lemetti, who was coming off his best game so far in the PBA last Thursday when he erupted for 28 points in a 113-112 heartbreaker at the hands of San Miguel Beer.

“It’s [championship] a goal that we think is possible as a team. That’d be amazing. It’s been a while since Rain or Shine won [a title] so hopefully, we keep improving and we can make a run,” he added. “The team, from the staff to my teammates, gives a great environment for me to develop. Obviously, we’re a great team because we keep on winning and that’s the biggest thing.”

The 6-foot-1 Lemetti is just one of the standout first-year players this season which includes Blackwater’s Sedrick Barefield, Ginebra’s RJ Abarrientos and NLEX’s Jonnel Policarpio to name a few.

READ: PBA: Yeng Guiao thrilled over Rain or Shine rookies’ showing

“It’s very stacked. From the first to second round, you can see it in the league right now. They’re contributing for their teams already as rookies. It’d be amazing but for now, we’re focused on winning,” said Lemetti.

Lemetti also thinks a key ingredient to his strong start is being under the tutelage of coach Yeng Guiao.

“It feels great to have this responsibility. Coach Yeng is known to give rookies opportunities so I’m grateful and he gives me confidence to play well and be a big part,” he said.

“As of now, Rain or Shine is just a great fit for me.”