JD Tungcab isn’t about to let the opportunity given him by coach Jojo Lastimosa go to waste.
The sophomore wingman showed his value at TNT during its first home game in the EASL by complementing import Quincy Miller in a 75-66 loss to the visiting Chiba Jets at the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex in Laguna.
Tungcab was the lone local to finish in double figures behind the team-high 22 of Miller as the former University of the Philippines stalwart tallied 10 points spiked by two three pointers.
The 6-foot-4 former special Gilas Pilipinas draftee kept the Tropang Giga afloat in the second quarter where the Jets could have easily pulled away if not for Tungcab’s timely baskets.
The effort naturally earned him a few good words from Lastimosa.
“Jaydee is not really a revelation, but he played well tonight,” said the retired PBA great turned coach.
“That’s how you earn the trust of the coaches. If you are given the chance, you make the coaches look good. It was his night tonight.”
Too bad, the Tropang Giga lost to the Jets anew, replicating the 93-75 loss they suffered to the B. League runner up team during their first encounter in Japan three weeks ago.
The loss was the second in Group A for TNT, which remains winless this season and 0-4 dating back to the EASL Champions Week last March.
If there’s one positive note for TNT on this night when its second import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson didn’t suit up as well (gastroenteritis), it’s Tungcab answering the call for the Tropang Giga.
“It’s nice to see some guys to step up who have not played a lot,” said Lastimosa. “He’s gonna help us down the road.” (LVBET)
