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PBA: Pacquiao credits asst. coach Victolero for Kia's inspiring run



Kia playing coach Manny Pacquiao has been a source of motivation for the Carnival squad the entire season, making a difference in games because of bench presence alone.

But the Filipino ring icon has not been around lately to support his team during games, and Kia lapsed into a three game losing streak after a 4-3 start in the conference.

Pacman made sure to attend their crucial game against Meralco to cap their eliminations campaign, though.

"Siguro naman nakatulong," he said when asked whether his presence gave the Carnival the energy and tenacity they needed to fend off Meralco.

The Sarangani representative, however, was also quick to deflect credit to his assistant coach Chito Victolero, who directed the team during the game that enabled them to have a shot for a playoff spot with 5-6 card.

"Maganda 'yung pinagkakatiwalaan kong coach na si Chito. Maganda ang disiplina niya sa mga players namin," he said. "Every game nag-i-improve 'yung laro ng mga players."

When he arrived at Araneta Coliseum's media room for the post-game press conference, Pacquiao immediately looked for his reliable deputy to give him a share of the spotlight.

Kia hoped for an NLEX win against Ginebra in order to get into the top eight, and Pacquiao left it all in the hands of God:

"Nasa kamay na ng Panginoon 'yan."

The Carnival coaching staff stayed after the game to witness the crucial tilt between Ginebra and NLEX. In the end, Japeth Aguilar nailed a triple with 1.7 seconds left, giving the Gin Kings the much-needed victory over the Road Warriors, eliminating Kia. - RAF, GMA News
Tags: pbaseason
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