New B-MEG import Darnell Hinson makes his debut in Dubai today as the Llamados try to end Talk ‘N Text’s three-game winning run in the PBA Governors’ Cup at the Al Shabab Sports Club.
After spending more time in the air the past four days since leaving Puerto Rico to join B-Meg, Hinson will be practically in synch with Dubai time for the game slated at 7 p.m. (11 p.m. Manila time) today.
“Fresh from Puerto Rico, he’s practically back in his time frame, and that’s good for us,” said coach Jorge Gallent of Hinson, who arrived in Manila on Monday then left for Dubai with the rest of the team the next day.
Hinson flew practically halfway around the world from Puerto Rico to the United States then to Japan for a short stopover before going to Manila.
“He looks well and in good shape. Hopefully, he can show it in the game,” said Gallent.
“He has a good shooting stroke. He really looks a lot better than Stefhon (Hannah),” said B-Meg top local James Yap.
The Tropang Texters, who are shooting for just the league’s fifth Grand Slam this year, did a little something to fight jet lag by leaving on Monday even as Barangay Ginebra, their second foe, jetted in yesterday.
Talk ‘N Text coach Chot Reyes is wary of the fact that his squad also did a lot of travelling before clashing with the Llamados and with the Gin Kings.