TAIPEI – Gilas Pilipinas coach Tab Baldwin has admitted Calvin Abueva was not in his original wish list, expressing much gladness he’s proven wrong by the energetic Alaska Milk forward.
“I don’t mind revealing this now because Calvin and I have talked. He is a quality kid and a very good player as we can see,” said Baldwin. “I can see that this is a passion for him. It has all worked out for the best and I am happy on being proven wrong.”
Abueva has been as energy guy for Gilas Pilipinas as he is with his mother team in the PBA, making good impression in practice and even in the warm-up games he’s played as a national player.
The former San Sebastian star in the NCAA had a rousing debut in the Jones Cup, collecting 15 points and five rebounds to help Gilas get past Chinese Taipei, 77-69, Sunday.
“We always know what he’s gonna get. He’s a ball of energy. He’s a solar energy. He’s amazing,” said Baldwin.
But Abueva should have not been here had Baldwin got all the players he requested from the PBA.
“I wouldn’t have taken Calvin this year. He wasn’t in the original pool of 26,” said the outspoken Gilas coach.
“I think Calvin has some growing up to do, some learning to do. But he’s done a lot, adapted to the Gilas environment very well,” he added.
Baldwin said assistant coach Alex Compton, the Alaska bench chieftain in the PBA, is a big help.
“There’s no question that Alex’ influence on him while he is here is very positive and very strong. But a lot of credit has to go to Calvin himself. We’ve had some good chats and he’s taken it upon himself to adapt to the Gilas environment,” said Baldwin.