Surging Global Port Batang Pier embracing new philosophy instilled by Franz Pumaren
BACK in the PBA coaching scene after steering Adamson to its first Final Four appearance in the UAAP, Franz Pumaren quickly brought his winning ways to his new team Global Port and at least for the first two games, the Batang Pier felt how to be a winner. Embracing the team’s new philosophy, the Batang Pier were able to show a lot of promise in the Philippine Cup with contrasting wins over Mahindra and Star to remain as the only unbeaten squad in the tournament. Erstwhile unbeaten squad Rain or Shine tasted its first loss on Sunday after dropping a heartbreaking loss to Ginebra and that put the Batang Pier in the solo lead. But for Mr. Pumaren, the early success had something to do with the players’ willingness to buy into his system. “Players are now beginning to understand their roles in the team,” Mr. Pumaren told Business World in a telephone interview. “Before, we’re just an entertaining team. Now, we’ve become more competitive.”
Of the changes seen in Global Port, the most significant came from Terrence Romeo, the league’s scoring champion for the past two seasons who is now showing a lot of maturity.
Mr. Pumaren noticed the difference in the game of the talented young guard who has collected major individual awards last season.
“He’s not a one dimensional player anymore. As you can see, he led the team in assists in our first two games, but what’s one significant change in his game his aggressiveness on defense,” added Mr. Pumaren.
Global Port made some key acquisitions in the preseason, securing vastly improving JR Quiñahan, veteran players KG Canaleta and Mick Pennisi and rookie Von Pessumal from the special Rookie Draft.
“We’re heading towards the right direction. Management had given me control on running the team. Hindi lang ako parang coach ngayon, para na
rin akong general manager,” Mr. Pumaren said.