Who is the top player of Ginebra?

(c) PBA Media Bureau

After seven games, Brgy. Ginebra San Miguel found themselves in the middle of the standings. They may need to win three of their last four games to enter into the top 4.

Who are their last four games? They are Magnolia, NLEX, Meralco and Northport. With the depth of Ginebra, the likelihood of winning three against those four teams is pretty high.

In terms of depth, it seems like Ginebra has been underrated due to what San Miguel Beermen had done in the playoffs.

When you checked the stats of the players of Ginebra, you may also come up with this question. Who is the top/ace player of Ginebra?

NOT GREG SLAUGHTER
In terms of projection, Greg was supposed to be that guy due to his size and skillset. Injury issues and inability to carry the team in the offensive end for an entire conference are his downfalls. The good thing is, he has not missed a game this conference and has been playing well with 16.1 points, 10.3 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 53% FG per game.

But, that is not enough to anoint him as the ace baller of the team when someone is producing better.

NOT LA TENORIO
Tenorio runs the offense of Ginebra. He is one of the best off-ball point guard, capable of magnetizing the defense and opening up the floor for his teammates. His efficiency though is not credible enough to be recognized as the top player of Ginebra. This season, he is shooting 42% from the field and in the last Philippine Cup, he shot 37% from the field.

Coupled that with the fact that he was not one of the top 2 scorer of the team this conference and last year's edition and we now have enough reason to not give him the distinction.

NOT SCOTTIE THOMPSON
Looking at the overall impact of the game of Thompson, it is hard to argue that he is not the guy for Ginebra. He is their best lock-on defender in the perimeter. He is capable of making plays for others. He is, of course, their best rebounder. And he is also consistent in terms of catch-and-shoot 3s.

Still, his lack of consistent scoring will not help him against the real go-to-guy of Ginebra. Thompson is still young do and will continue to develop and may soon claim the distinction of being the top player of Ginebra.

WHY JAPETH AGUILAR
He is the most complete player in Ginebra. Just like in 2018 Philippine Cup, he is leading the team in terms of scoring and with very good efficiency at 52% from the field and 56% from beyond the arc, although he only attempted nine three-pointers, so far.

On defense, his length and athleticism and improving feel have made him the glue that turned their squad into a defensive elite.

Overall, Japeth will get the recognition today because there is no reason not to give it to him.