Teng drops 42 in AMA debut as Titans trip Batangas

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For someone who’s used to scoring in bunches, Jeron Teng should be the least surprised of his latest achievement.

But the former La Salle star chose to downplay his 42-point explosion as he opened his PBA D-League stint for the AMA Online Education Titans, who overcame Batangas, 101-95, yesterday at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

Given keys to the offense by coach Mark Herrera, Teng toyed with the Batangueños’ defense, finishing with the second highest output in league history, while shooting 12-of-27 from the field in leading the Titans to a resounding debut.

“I didn’t expect it,” said Teng, a two-time UAAP Finals Most Valuable Player of his performance.

“I’m just happy with this team. My mentality every game is to give my best and improve what I can improve on before I enter the Draft. It’s another basketball experience for me and I’m happy to improve here.”

Teng, who once scored 104 points for Xavier in high school, felt Herrera’s trust and confidence in him to take over the game was just as crucial as his performance.

“That’s what I like about coach Mark,” said Teng. “He lets me be and he lets me play my game. He trusts my judgment and that’s the reason why my game also shows.”

“He (Teng) really sparked the team and took on a leadership role which is what we really needed in a game like this,” said Herrera, who is looking to take his team beyond the elimination round with Teng leading the charge.

Just when it looked like Batangas was making headway with a late burst in the third period, Teng took over with seven straight points to extend the lead to eight points.