San Miguel is taking its time in incorporating Terrence Romeo back into the scheme of things as the Beermen also prepare for their best-of-three quarterfinals match against Converge FiberXers.
The flamboyant guard didn’t look like he left and looked sharp in his return from an almost nine-month absence due to a nagging back injury, finishing with 12 points and an assist in 16 minutes of play in SMB’s 113-108 triumph over Meralco on Friday, Dec. 2.
While he might look very well fit in his first game back, Romeo admitted that he’s still trying to find his rhythm on the court – something that assistant coach Jorge Gallent wants to address as the Beermen move forward in the playoffs.
“He looks fine inside the court. His stamina was okay but still we don't want to push his minutes kasi this is his first game after nine months,” said Gallent.
“We just let him feel the game so when the playoffs come he (has) played already,” he added.
Romeo’s return should come as a huge boost for the Beermen who gave a glimpse of what they can do when in full health, taking a huge 25-point lead against the Bolts before import Devon Scott foiled a late storm from Meralco to finish the eliminations at the fifth spot of the standings with 7-5 record.
Still missing for SMB, however, was head coach Leo Austria who now has missed his third-straight game after being put under health and safety protocols. Austria’s continued absence further fueled rumors of a possible coaching change at the San Miguel camp.
Gallant, for his part, stressed that he’s just temporarily taking the mantle for Austria and he’s just waiting for the multi-titled to be ready mentally and physically.
“I'm just waiting for him. We as assistants we're just doing our jobs in taking his place so once coach Leo is ready mentally and physically, he'll join us,” explained Gallent.