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Terrafirma's hero Juami Tiongson credits coaches, teammates for consecutive brilliant games
Terrafirma's hero Juami Tiongson credits coaches, teammates for consecutive brilliant games
Juami Tiongson, the unlikely leader of Terrafirma’s giant-killing ways since the restart of the PBA Philippine Cup in Bacolor, Pampanga, said there were plenty of factors that resulted in his turn from a role player in the man of the hour.
The 5-foot-10 guard was able to raise his game to another level by resetting his career-high in points twice, first by dropping 28 on San Miguel Beer in a 110-104 overtime upset before erupting for 31 that resulted in a 95-90 shocker over defending champion Barangay Ginebra.
What made Tiongson’s output impressive was that the Dyip looked like in a world of trouble after losing their first four games when the conference was held at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City during the latter stretch of July.
In addition, Terrafirma will no longer have talented rookie Joshua Munzon for the rest of the conference with a dislocated finger and big man Roosevelt Adams missing both games due to stomach problems.
“I guess through God’s grace, having faith and trusting the work I put in the last months leading up to the opening of the season,” said Tiongson, whose recent numbers were only seen during his time in the PBA D-League several years ago.
“And of course, yung teammates ko, they kept pushing me all throughout the game (against Ginebra). They were looking for me.”
Tiongson drained nine threes against Ginebra, some of which came in the third quarter when Terrafirma hiked its lead to 17 at one point.
“I think during the past weeks, (Terrafirma coach Johnedel Cardel) and the coaching staff put in new plays to help the shooters get free,” he said. “At least di na kami masyadong predictable on offense and I think the coaching staff really did a good job.”
Ginebra would later double on Tiongson while also threatening to orchestrate a comeback. But the opponent’s adjustments didn’t prevent the ex-Ateneo guard from making key plays without hitting the big shot, such as finding Rashawn McCarthy for an open three in the final minute.
McCarthy’s trifecta made it 91-85 for the Dyip, enough to deny the Gin Kings’ rally.
Eric Camson, Matt Ganuelas-Rosser, Aldrech Ramos, Joseph Gabayni and Andreas Cahilig were also instrumental in the win that Terrafirma’s first against Ginebra since entering the league in 2014.
“It means everything kasi it wouldn't be possible if everyone didn't sacrifice into their roles,” Tiongson said. “Everyone did their part, everyone did their role and it wouldn't be possible if it weren't for them.”
His sudden rise has made heads turn, including one former Ateneo teammate.
“Daaaaaaang. Magic. Go get yours,” said NLEX star Kiefer Ravena, referring to Tiongson’s nickname during his UAAP days.
Tiongson’s magical run has been one of the major stories of the restart, and it has given Terrafirma, now in share of eighth spot at 2-4, belief that a playoff spot that has eluded them for so long could become a possibility.