By NIKOLE JAVIER
Dave Ildefonso’s pro debut couldn’t have been more exciting following Suwon KT Sonicboom’s 77-66 road victory over Seoul Samsung Thunders on Thursday, Jan. 19, at the Jamsil Indoor Gym.
In his first five minutes of action, the former Ateneo star tallied five points and grabbed four rebounds for his team.
The Sonicboom was coming off a two-game slide while the 22-year-old guard, who was initially set to make his debut for the team two weeks ago, had to deal with an issue over his documents.
Suwon KT relied on its strong opening, 29-12, to spoil the Samsung Thunders’ fightback in the ensuing quarter.
On the other hand, Ildefonso highlighted his debut with a triple in the second quarter which extended Suwon KT’s lead by double figures to greet the halftime buzzer, 44-34.
With 1:18 to go in the third, the 6-foot-3 guard continued his contribution with a reverse layup to keep the Sonicboom on top with a 57-51 advantage.
Ildefonso managed to make something on both ends for himself in the eventual 17-minute of action as Suwon improved 14-17 in the standings.
Jarrod Jones led the balanced output for Suwon KT with 15 points and five rebounds while Hongseok Yang tallied 13 markers, six rebounds and four assists.
Meanwhile, former PBA import Lester Prosper added six points and 10 rebounds in the bounce-back win.
Ildefonso, who signed a two-year deal with Suwon KT, was excited to finally make his much-awaited debut in the league.
“I feel excited, very, very excited and I’m so eager to play for the team. I just want to help my team win. Before going to Korea, I just really tried to get in shape in the Philippines and when I got here, , especially in the practices,” said Ildefonso during the pre-game interview.
Import Darral Willis was the lone bright spot with 28 points in nearly 30 minutes of play as Seoul continued to spiral in its ninth straight game for a 10-22 record.
Suwon will attempt to keep the ball rolling when they take on the Seoul SK Knights on Saturday, Jan. 21.