CJ Perez backs up the hype in Pirates debut

CJ Perez. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/ INQUIRER.net

Returning to his old stomping grounds, CJ Perez didn’t look like he missed a beat as he dazzled in his first official NCAA game with Lyceum.

The 23-year-old lived up to the hype and racked up 22 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, and two steals in the Pirates’ NCAA Season 93-opening 96-75 victory over JRU on Tuesday.

Perez is just glad to finally be on a competitive setting anew after three years of treading in the Team B circuit while serving his residency.

“I’m really happy to play for LPU and I’m glad to play for NCAA again. I’m so excited,” he said in Filipino.

Perez’ giddiness, though, may have gotten the better of him as he also committed seven of Lyceum’s 21 turnovers, a part of his game that coach Topex Robinson playfully took a shot at.

“He’s still the same, same with his turnovers,” said the youthful mentor to his prized possession in jest.

But Perez took it in stride, knowing that he has to be better in the coming games.

The 6-foot-2 prodigy, however, doesn’t want the spotlight all for himself, saying that the secret for the huge acclaim the Pirates have been getting from their preseason showing should also be credited to his teammates.

“I’m the same CJ Perez, but the team is what helps us win. It’s our camaraderie, we’re all close and we’re all focused, which bonds the team and makes us work, especially on the defensive end,” he said.

Lyceum gave the fans a glimpse on how potent the team can be when locked in, shutting down the usually gritty Heavy Bombers.

Perez noted that the performance was just the tip of the iceberg as he expects the Pirates to continue working hard in hopes of figuring in the Final Four race later in the season.

“If we can be consistent, we can go far this season,” he said.

And Lyceum can test its mettle early as it gears up for defending champion San Beda on Friday.