MATTHEW Aquino, son of former PBA star Marlou, is out to prove his worth with Shinshu in the Japan B. League.
The elder Aquino has only one piece of advice to his son: play without pressure.
“Huwag daw ako ma-pressure. Ready lang daw ako at enjoyin ko lang dahil hindi laging may ganitong opportunity,” the younger Aquino said on Radyo5 92.3 News FM’s Power and Play program hosted by former PBA Commissioner Noli Eala.
“Ipakita ko lang kung ano ang trinabaho ko,” he added.
The 6-foot-9 Aquino, a former National University big man, was signed by the Brave Warriors to suit up as a local since he has Japanese blood and holds a Japanese passport.
With an even 4-4 record, the Brave Warriors return home today and will square off with Levanga Hokkaido at the Kotobuki Arena Chikuma.
Aquino is convinced he could help his squad in its campaign.
“Nakita ko iyong roster nila at ini-explain ng coach sa akin na maliit lang ang roster nila.
Nakita ko na magfi-fit ako sa system nila,” Aquino said.
“So, tinignan ko talaga kung saan ako mabibigyan ng playing time, saan ako gagaling at saan ako ma-dedevelop talaga.”
After his stint with the Bulldogs in the UAAP, Aquino saw action in semi-pro leagues, including a stop with Bacoor in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League where he teamed up with his father.
Aquino, 25, was initially eyeing to play for Pasig-Sta.Lucia in the amateur league Filbasket and apply for the PBA draft until offers in the B. League came.
