Jeron Teng earns praise for staying ‘professional’ after benching, proves worth for San Miguel

MANILA, Philippines – Jeron Teng turned from zero to hero as he helped San Miguel pull level with Barangay Ginebra in the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals.

Benched in the entirety of their Game 1 loss, Teng showed he can deliver and keyed the Beermen to a 93-84 victory over the Gin Kings in Game 2 at the Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, January 7. 

Teng took over late by pouring 12 of his 13 points in the fourth quarter and added 5 rebounds and 3 assists as he proved his worth to Beermen head coach Leo Austria, who failed to use him in the opener of the best-of-seven affair. 

“I was not able to use him because of some things in my mind. I felt guilty, so in the practice the day after, I told him to be ready,” said Austria in a mix of Filipino and English. “I have to appreciate him because he is really a professional — no questions, no complaints.” 

“I told him his time will come anytime. It happened today. Congrats to Jeron because he is very professional.” 

San Miguel held a slim 70-68 lead before Teng made his mark, with the former La Salle star either scoring or assisting on 16 points in a pivotal 18-9 run that opened up an 88-77 cushion with under four minutes remaining.

The triumph allowed the Beermen to get back on track after their 10-game winning streak got snapped and deal the Gin Kings their first loss after eight consecutive victories. 

“I just focus on controlling what I have control of and that is to be ready every time my number is called. I’m just here to help out the team whatever the team needs me to do. I’m all for us to win, I’m all for winning championships,” said Teng. 

Playing in a stacked team like San Miguel, Teng said his job is to be prepared for his moment. 

“As a player, I just do what I’m paid to do and that is just being ready whenever my number is called,” said Teng. 

Teng was part of a balanced Beermen attack led by June Mar Fajardo, who turned in his second straight 20-20 performance with 21 points and 23 rebounds. 

Don Trollano added 12 points, while Jericho Cruz and CJ Perez provided 11 points and 5 rebounds each. 

Stephen Holt and RJ Abarrientos paced Ginebra in the loss with 18 points apiece. 

As San Miguel seeks to take control in Game 3 on Friday, January 9, at the same venue, expect Teng to get more playing time. 

“With his performance today, I think he is included in our rotation,” said Austria. “I never doubted his professionalism. When it comes to attitude, he is one of the best.” – Rappler.com