THE Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup title is the only jewel missing in the trophy cabinet of San Miguel Beer coach Leo Austria since he took over as the Beermen’s chief mentor.
To get their campaign going in the right direction, Austria has high hopes that their new import Charles Rhodes will be able to blend well with the team.
“I hope he jells well with the team and he embraces the system quickly,” said Austria as the Beermen celebrated their third straight title conquest of the All-Filipino Conference.
Rhodes, a 6’8” veteran of the Korean Basketball League, will soon get his wish to play in the Philippines when the Commissioner’s Cup gets going this March.
Rhodes played collegiate basketball for Mississippi State University and earned All-SEC honors on his final season.
Austria said the AFC was a tiring campaign as their semifinal series with the TNT Tropang Texters reached Game 7.
“Pagod na pagod kami. Kailangan siguro ng mahabang pahinga,” said Austria, who added that winning the AFC crown in five games out of the finals is better than going the distance.
“Maganda nang natapos na Game 5. ‘Pag umabot pa ng Game 7 ito, very taxing na sa amin ito,” added Austria.