Cliff Hodge receives his award from the PBA Press Corps during the 2024 awards night at Novotel. –PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—Meralco’s Cliff Hodge probably had one of the best nights of his career on Tuesday during the PBA Press Corps Awards Night in Novotel, Cubao.
After all, it was the night when he finally got the trophy that he had “always wanted.”
“It feels great to finally get the trophy I‘ve always wanted,” said Hodge with Inquirer Sports. “Besides the championship trophy, this is the second that I’ve always wanted. I always pride myself on my defensive capabilities.”
Hodge was hailed the PBA Press Corps’ Defensive Player of the Year, an award highly coveted by the Bolts’ paint beast.
READ: Cliff Hodge wants first PBA All-Star stint to matter
The veteran for Meralco isn’t the most dazzling talent under coach Luigi Trillo.
On offense, Hodge only averaged 9.6 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game. However, it was his defense and hustle that always shined bright on the court.
Hodge’s defense played big in Meralco’s history-making championship run in the Season 48 PBA Philippine Cup where he stopped June Mar Fajardo and ultimately the San Miguel Beermen in six games.
But that’s the past. Right now, Hodge is focused on proving why he’s worthy of the DPOY citation.
READ: After very long wait, Meralco now in company of PBA immortals
And he has to do it in the quarterfinals of the ongoing PBA Governors’ Cup tournament against none other than another league juggernaut in Ginebra.
The Gin Kings will be a heavy task for Hodge, specifically import Justin Brownlee, who he deems as “probably the greatest import” the PBA has ever seen.
Meralco Bolts’ Cliff Hodge during the PBA Governors’ Cup. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIREr.net
“I know I’ll have to guard Brownlee and he’s probably the greatest import to ever play in the PBA. I’ve been watching tapes for the last few weeks getting ready.”
“Having this award means a lot but going out there and proving why I have it is a lot more.”
History is on the side of the Bolts, fortunately.
Meralco outlasted Ginebra in seven games last conference before going toe-to-toe with the Beermen.
Hodge’s defensive specialty will be present in the upcoming series but he knows they will be facing a different beast.
“Obviously, we’re going up against Ginebra which is always a strong team. They’re going to be tough, no matter what. Whenever you face an SMC team, it’s always tough,” he said.
“They’re a totally different team than they were in the last conference… They’re not going to play the same style I think they’ll be faster.”