Maybe Northport traded Pringle to Ginebra because of the emergence of Bolick

(c) PBA Media Bureau

Last Friday, Robert Bolick fulfilled one of his dreams in the PBA, he made a game-winner. I saw the shot and it was a beautiful play. The defense of Meralco was not prepared for an instant attack that Robert did. He did not have any hesitation as he dribbled his way to the rim. It was so sudden that no other Bolt was able to help out.

Robert finished the game with 18 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and 2 turnovers.

After I saw how they won that close game against the Meralco Bolts, I realize something. Maybe, Northport gave up Stanley Pringle because they already saw that Robert is very capable of taking up the cape as the man of the franchise.

Maybe what happened was, Northport was fighting out trade discussions about Pringle for several years but when Robert arrived and delivered, they decided to end their troubles and let him go.

And now we are witnessing another star in Batang Pier uniform. Robert is currently manufacturing 17.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 0.9 steal, 43% FG and 35% 3FG per game. Those are not as good as what Pringle can provide but they do have a much better supporting cast around him with what they got for The Beard.

Robert will have a big challenge ahead of him. They will enter the playoffs with a twice-to-beat edge. Which basically means a good opportunity of reaching the semifinals.

Will he deliver in the big stage?

I hope he does. I hope he shows the world that Northport was fine even if they gave up a superstar in Stanley Pringle.

Why?

At least we can fool ourselves believing that there is a hope of reaching parity in the league.