MANILA, Philippines – Former Barako Bull import Evan Brock painfully watched the Energy Colas lose to Petron Blaze Boosters, 88-77, behind the team bench last night.
Brocks’ replacement DJ Mbenga led the team with 14 points on 5-of-14 shooting from the field on top of 14 boards and two shot blocks but failed to get enough local support to follow up their big Easter Sunday win over San Mig Coffee.
For Brock, it’s hard to compare him and Mbenga because they bring in different dimensions to the game.
For one, Brock is more of a wing player than a post-up threat. He is more athletic but gives up size and bulk to the former LA Lakers back-up center who is more intimidating and a force to reckon with inside the shaded lane.
“He’s huge out there,†was Brock’s short description of Mbenga’s debut last night.
The 6-9 import who normed 21.8 points, 16 boards, 2.4 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.4 blocks in Barako Bull’s 11 games remained professional despite getting the pink slip.
“I harbor no ill feelings towards the team [management]. In fact, I’m here to support the team,†said Brock, who sat with injured teammate Jonas Villanueva behind the team bench.
As the PBA door shut down on him, Brock said there are other opportunities opening up for him to play elsewhere.
“There are offers but I can’t talk about them [for now],†Brock told Philstar.com.
Brock previously led the Indonesia Warriors to the Asean Basketball League prior to his stint in the PBA.