Juami Tiongson continued to excel, leading the Terrafirma Dyip to a 97-87 victory over the Blackwater Bossing in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup on Wednesday. Tiongson contributed significantly with 25 points, eight assists, and two steals, guiding the Dyip to their first win of the conference. However, rather than boasting about his performance, the former Ateneo Blue Eagles standout took the opportunity to commend his teammate.
Despite not being a high scorer in the game, rookie Stephen Holt received praise from Tiongson. Holt, a prized newcomer with experience in the NBA G League, NBL in Australia, and various European leagues, showcased elite defensive skills. “Big game for Holt. Maybe he didn’t score as much, but he was elite defensively,” mentioned Tiongson.
Although Holt has yet to have a breakout performance after being drafted first overall in this year's PBA Draft, he made valuable contributions against Blackwater with seven points, seven rebounds, and five assists. In his debut, he scored 11 points but struggled with a 0-of-5 shooting from the three-point range in a 108-103 loss to the NorthPort Batang Pier. With upcoming matchups against the NLEX Road Warriors, TNT Tropang Giga, Phoenix Fuel Masters, and Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, the Dyip, now at a 1-1 record, will look for continued contributions from the 31-year-old cager who patiently waited for the opportunity to acquire his Philippine passport before joining.
Some fans were quick to label him as a bust but with what I saw, the guy is legit. Defensively, he is advance and can easily be a top 15 defender in the league. Offensively, he recorded 2 turnovers in 70 minutes of play. If that is not elite, I wonder what elite is.
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