Blackwater Bossing big man Justin Chua during a game against Terrafirma Dyip in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Blackwater is currently taking on the PBA Commissioner’s Cup without two of their floor generals but fortunately, Justin Chua has been there to pick up the slack.
Despite being a big man, Chua played the role of shotcaller and leader to make up for the absences of guards Sedrick Barefield and RK Ilagan.
Article continues after this advertisement“I think I’m just trying to keep a positive attitude, hoping it rubs off on the others,” said Chua with Inquirer Sports after the Bossing’s 96-86 win over Terrafirma at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
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“Hopefully, they respond to it and today they did. I have to keep doing it every day because we don’t have two of our main guys.”
Article continues after this advertisementChua helped Blackwater keep the Dyip winless after 10 games with a huge double-double of 17 points and 12 rebounds.
Article continues after this advertisementThe former Ateneo standout also delivered directives to his squad inside the hardwood, resulting in 21 team assists compared to Terrafirma’s 14.
Article continues after this advertisementBlackwater Bossing big man Justin Chua during a game against Terrafirma Dyip in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
However, his leadership spans even outside of the court as he’s serving as a beacon of advice for both Ilagan and Barefield on the sidelines.
royal win slot“I just kept telling them to be ready when they come back,” bared Chua.
Article continues after this advertisementREAD: PBA: TNT’s Justin Chua out for rest of PBA Finals with ACL tear
“Don’t force it because that’s when more injuries come. I’ve experienced it and that’s what I tell them,” the big man added.
With the Blackwater win, the Bossing remained alive in the race for a conference playoff spot with a 2-7 card.
Although it’s slim, Chua believes that the squad can salvage a quarterfinals seat.
“We’ll just take it one game and one win at a time and see what happens. It’s hard to look forward because a lot has happened at this conference. We’ll win one then lose four, win one again so it’s hard to think that way,” he said.
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey expressed his enthusiasm and stated: "This bilateral series against Germany will be a remarkable showcase of world-class hockey. Both India and Germany have a rich history in the sport, and this series will give fans an opportunity to witness an intense competition between two of the most formidable teams in the world.
“We’ll see if we win straight games. Malay mo, makapasok pa kami.”
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The Bossing looks to bolster their hopes for a playoff seatsigebet, possibly still without Barefield and Ilagan, on Sunday at Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo when they face Converge.
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