Reavis defying odds with all heart, all effort

MANILA, Philippines — He may not get all the hype and monster numbers but Rafi Reavis effectively gets the job done.

The 6-foot-8 Reavis, 41, owner of 11 championship rings, is providing the Hotshots with a lot of hustle, grabbing precious rebounds, winning looseballs, and defending well against San Miguel’s fancied bigs led by June Mar Fajardo to help them to a 2-1 lead in the PBA Philippine Cup finals.

Reavis came through with 16 points, 15 rebounds and two steals to emerge Player of the Game in Magnolia’s pivotal 86-82 win in Game Three.

“I just try to do my job, take whatever comes with it and also hoping that it’s a W,” said Reavis. “I’m okay with one point, 15 points, two rebounds, 10 rebounds, it’s all the same to me; it’s the W, that’s what I care about.”

His teammates appreciated their captain’s efforts.

“He’s so valuable to us; his energy and leadership on the court were a big factor. We’re so blessed to have a Rafi Reavis in our team,” said Paul Lee.

With Reavis anchoring the frontline D, the Hotshots contained Fajardo to a “low” 17-14 and dominated the rebounding battle with a 25-rebound margin.

“It’s just respecting who he is,” Reavis replied whan asked about his defense on the five-time MVP. “He’s a great player and you just try to do your best against him.”

Reavis stressed it was a collective effort with him and fellow bigs Ian Sangalang, Rodney Brondial, Kyle Pascual and Aldrech Ramos.