Rodgers quick to impress in tuneup, hopeful to bring championship to Ginebra

MANILA -- American reinforcement Leon Rodgers, fresh from leading Ginebra to a 103-95 tuneup win versus Air21 Friday said sky’s the limit when it comes to their chances of redeeming themselves from an undistinguished Philippine Cup campaign.

But Rodgers quickly adds this will only be achieved if his teammates would be able to play their specific roles and follow their coach’s instructions.

“We’ve got good guys that come in and do their roles. I think that will be the biggest thing in this team, guys who really know their roles,” said Rodgers. “If we follow that and follow the coach’s instructions I think we’re going to have a pretty good chance of hopefully bringing that championship to Ginebra.”

Apparently the Ginebra coaching staff and management are impressed with their import, with Board Governor Robert Non stating his wish that their import would also make the 6-5 limit for the Governors’ Cup.

“Sana umabot ng 6-5 para pwede sa third conference,” said Non.

Rodgers however would not qualify as a third conference import after he was officially measured 6-5 ½ Friday afternoon at the PBA office.

“Magaling ito, may tira sa loob at labas. Medyo alalay pa nga yan ngayon sa laro,” said Ginebra assistant Jorge Gallent.

Against the Express, Rodgers was impressed at how deep their line-up is when their second unit composed of Mac Baracael, Jay-R Reyes and seldom used James Forrester stepped up after an unremarkable second half from their regular starters.

Rodgers, who scored 13 of his game-high 29 points in the fourth quarter was still not contented with his performance during their scrimmage against the Express.

“I was disappointed a missed a lot of of open shots. At the same time I think we came on at the right time. I think today was a great display of the second team,” said Rodgers. “It really brought the energy and really turned the game around in the fourth quarter.”

Against Air21, Baracael and Reyes chipped in 10 points apiece while Forrester connected two triples in the third canto. Superstar Mark Caguioa lead the locals in scoring with 13 points.

“Anytime you bring together a team this short of time, you’ve got chemistry issues. Right now we’re not even into a week with each other. I think we’re not playing too bad as far as chemistry is concerned," said Rodgers.