Jalalon gets best of both worlds from Lee, Barroca
JIO JALALON is getting the best of both worlds from the Star Hotshots. Not only did the rookie guard ably play according to his full potential, he’s getting proper guidance from two of the best point guards in the PBA today. The 5- foot- 9, former Arellano University stalwart, who was picked by the Hotshots in the special draft for Gilas Cadet standouts, has been able to find ways to shine in the heavy- guard rotation of the Hotshots that include Paul Lee, Mark Barroca and Peter June Simon.
For Mr. Jalalon, there’s no better way to fast- track his learning than to get guidance from his veteran teammates.
“I’ve been learning a lot from Kuya Paul each time we’re together on the floor. He tells me where to get my good spot each time there’s a ball screen,” Mr. Jalalon told BusinessWorld in an interview.
Mr. Lee, traded for James Yap before the start of the new PBA season, assumed the leadership role at the point guard spot. His arrival gives the Hotshots stability in the backcourt.
Considered one of the best offensive players, Mr. Lee provides instant offense while doing the quarterbacking chores for the Hotshots.
As new coach Chito Victolero embraces a small ball unit, Mr. Lee has been given more opportunities to score with either Mr. Jalalon or Mr. Barroca as his partner in the backcourt.
Mr. Jalalon, on the other hand, has been getting pointers in defense from Mr. Barroca, his alter ego in terms of making stops.
“He teaches me a lot of things on the defensive end. Once you see Kuya Mark hustling and doing everything on defense, you want to do the same. You want to match that intensity he brings,” added Mr. Jalalon.
In the Hotshots’ third straight win, Mr. Jalalon finished with 14 points, six assist and five rebounds in another solid stats line.