After fearing the end was near, Enrico Villanueva relishes new role with NLEX
Asi Taulava stole the show again. After scoring only nine points in the first three quarters of the game, Taulava exploded for 12 in the final period to lead the NLEX Road Warriors to their maiden win in the PBA against the GlobalPort Batang Pier. However, another NLEX center also had a big role in their 101-96 victory.
Taulava played less than 30 minutes in the game which allowed him to have the energy for the finishing kick.
Enrico Villanueva, returning from a long break due to an injury, was a big factor for Taulava’s performance.
While a pre-season scuffle with Rain or Shine’s Ryan Arana brought the Raging Bull’s name back in the conversation, his 11 points and six rebounds against GlobalPort should make sure he stays there.
“Akala ko hindi na ako makakalaro sa PBA,” said Villanueva after he emerged from the dugout. “Hindi ko na matandaan kung kailan ako huling naglaro.”
From the Air21 Express, Villanueva was traded to GlobalPort but he spent most of his time recuperating from a knee injury. Barely playing, the big man though his career would be over.
“Naglaro ako sa Air21 and GlobalPort siguro a total of 20 minutes in the entire season,” he added.
Lady luck finally smiled at him when he was traded to the Road Warriors after they bought our Villanueva's old team. It was also fitting that he debuted against Batang Pier and from the looks of it, they could have used his help inside, specially against Taulava.
“Ang pinaka magandang nangyari sa akin, nakasabay ako sa training sa buong off-season ng NLEX. From start to finish hindi ako nag-miss ng practice. Doon ko nakuha yung timing and yung confidence ulit,” Villanueva said.
“Masaya ako kasi I know I’ll have a chance to play every game dahil dalawa lang kami ni Asi talaga na center. Yung mindset ko kasi ngayon I have to be ready every game. Di katulad nung dati na nanghuhula ako kung makakalaro ako o hindi. Masaya ako na may confidence sa akin yung coaching staff na maging back-up ni Asi. Alam kong mabigat na responsibility yun.”
Taulava had nothing but good words for his new frontcourt buddy. At 41 years of age, Taulava could use some help. Villanueva might not be young but his 18 minutes on the floor gave Taulava some much-needed rest.
“With Enrico being at 90%, it was great that I was able to share the minutes with him. It allowed me to have more energy to finish strong in the end,” Taulava said. “Enrico played well, that’s why coach gave him more minutes. Now we have two big guys to share the burden. Having Enrico is a big bonus for us.”
“I’m ready to play more minutes but with Enrico still trying to work his way back into shape, it’s good that our coaches gave him a chance.”
