Philippine National Volleyball Federation to host AVC Beach Tour
23
Meralco's Chris Newsome, playing basketball the right way
During the East Asia Super League (EASL) battle between the Meralco Bolts and the Ryukyu Golden Kings, where the latter won, 89-71, on Wednesday night, January 22, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig, one name stood out – it’s Chris Newsome.
In a post-game interview, Ryukyu head coach Dai Oketani said that Meralco is a great team with great players, especially Newsome.
“He is really, really, a good player. It was really difficult for us to stop him,” said Oketani.
“I’m humbled by the comment and by the respect I’ve earned from the other coaches. I mean, I guess that just confirms that I’m doing the right thing as a player,” Newsome said.
The Bolts team captain was appreciative of the kind words of the Japanese coach.
“I’m humbled by the comment and by the respect I’ve earned from the other coaches. I mean, I guess that just confirms that I’m doing the right thing as a player,” Newsome said.
The Ateneo alumnus also shared that anytime he steps on the hardcourt, expect him to give his all.
“You know, anytime I get to step on the floor, I never take it for granted. I’m going to give you my best. It doesn’t matter if I’m wearing the Meralco jersey or Gilas Pilipinas jersey. I’m going to give you my best,” he added.
Juan Karlo Libunao (JKL)
Newsome also discussed that it’s just how he was raised that’s why he always wanted to be in his top form, “And that’s just how I was raised, how I was brought up.”
The PBA Season 48 Philippine Cup Finals MVP said that it was a humbling experience that the opposing squad recognized the game that he’s playing.
“And for others to see that and to be recognized for that, it’s definitely humbling. And, you know, I take that with respect for them as well.”
Newsome also noted the tough basketball played by the Japanese team, “They play a really tough brand of basketball over there in Japan, and you can see that on the international stage, they’re raising the bar there. Starting to compete in FIBA tournaments and everything.”
The two-time PBA All-Defensive Team member concluded, “So to have that compliment from one of the greatest coaches in Japan and just from the Japanese community, it’s definitely an honor.”
Newsome finished with 12 points, five assists, three rebounds, one steal, and one block, without turning the ball over in almost 30 minutes of game play. He also drew six fouls – the highest in the game.
The Meralco’s star and the rest of the Bolts can still manage to snatch a Final Four spot if they beat the New Taipei Kings on February 12 in Taiwan.
