HAVING taken the helm of Meralco from Norman Black only last month, Bolts coach Luigi Trillo has his work cut out for him.
The pro league’s extended pre-season serves as a big opportunity for Trillo to implement his system – his charges simply need to do it right.
“The priority is to do the right things, and if we win because we’re doing it, then okay iyon,” Trillo said. “When you’re doing that then that gives you the opportunity to elevate your system.
“These are the times to test it and we’re getting there,” he added.
Meralco’s resolve will be tested anew when it squares off with winless TNT today in the PBA On Tour at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
The match is set at 5 p.m., with the Bolts eyeing to jack up their mark to 3-3 and rebound from a stunning 102-107 loss to Terrafirma 10 days ago.
San Miguel Beer faces NLEX in the nightcap at 7:30.
Trillo’s charges have the chance to prove their worth in the exhibition games while learning his system.
“Obviously, when you come to the game you play your best, but the priority now for us is more to learn iyong system dahil bagong system nga itinatakbo namin,” Trillo said.
“It’s an opportunity for the other guys to get their time by doing the right things on the court. The little things needed so they can get the playing time and makatulong dito sa team. That’s the whole essence of this pre-season.”
The likes of Allein Maliksi, Bong Quinto, Raymond Almazan, and Cliff Hodge are expected to lead the Bolts’ charge.
With a 0-4 slate that included a 63-96 rout at the hands of unbeaten Magnolia last June 16, the Tropang Giga seem to be easy prey for Meralco.
But Trillo cautioned TNT could not be taken lightly.
“We have to respect TNT. Kahit na wala pang panalo iyon it’s only in the end na natalo iyon, in all their games,” he said. “In the first half dikit sila. You can’t take them for granted.”
