The Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants took their Sunday loss to the Air21 Express in a positive way, saying they’re now looking forward to a better showing in the coming PBA Fiesta Conference.
“Everybody wanted to win and keep the Purefoods’ tradition of winning. Everybody was passionate and emotional. There was little misunderstanding but it was patched up and we’re moving on,” said Purefoods coach Ryan Gregorio.
Purefoods top gun James Yap and assistant coach Koy Banal figured in an altercation in one timeout while the team was trailing way behind in a knockout contest they eventually lost to Air21.
“We had little misunderstanding because of the situation – so much noise and the frustration. But we’ve talked and patched things up. All’s well,” said Yap.
The 2006 MVP winner said they will redeem themselves in the import-laden tourney where the team intends to bring back Marquin Chandler.
Gregorio has had an initial talk with the former one-time PBA Best Import awardee, currently playing in Korea.
Chandler, who starred for the San Jose Spartans in the US NCAA, has played two conferences as a Purefoods import, leading the team to a runner-up finish behind Red Bull in 2006.
The 6-foot-6 deadshot had a mediocre showing and was cut in 2007 while playing hurt.