Taulava says ABL stint is 'like being a rookie all over again'

Asi Taulava is enjoying his time in the Asean Basketball League. And based on the reactions of those who flocked to the Ynares Sports Center on Friday for the San Miguel Beermen's game against the Saigon Heat, it seems like the fans are enjoying him, too. [Related: San Miguel Beermen slaughter Saigon Heat for sweet revenge]

 

Taulava was a force in the paint for the Beermen, tallying 14 points with nine rebounds, a block, and an assist in only 25 minutes as San Miguel steamrolled through Saigon, 100-74. He did the intangibles, too, even diving for the ball at one point to get a jumpball call against Heat point guard Jai Reyes. It hasn't been all roses, though, as Taulava observed that there are still things left to get used to.

 

"It's an adjustment period. In the PBA, especially me being the veteran, I get away with some calls," said Taulava. "In the ABL, it's like being a rookie all over again. I gotta adjust to that."

 

"The only difference is that you have two imports. You gotta learn to adjust to that," Taulava added.

 

"The Rock" seemed fine with Brian Williams in the paint, while the team's other import, Gabe Freeman, created mismatches in the three spot with San Miguel's size advantage. The Beermen converted on 44 points in the paint, while limiting the Heat to only 18. San Miguel also out-rebounded Saigon 45-29.

 

As the young season continues to unfold, Taulava expressed his appreciation for the presence of fellow PBA veteran Eric Menk, who like him, is a new addition to the team. [Related: Eric Menk goes from Gin King to Beerman]

 

"[Playing with Eric is] awesome. Whenever we make our runs, he makes basketball so much easier for me," said Taulava. "All I have to do is go out and play and we'll find each other."

 

With Taulava playing efficient basketball in the regional league, it might be natural to assume that teams might find him fit to return to the PBA. The big man, who will turn 40 on March 2, isn't too keen on entertaining such ideas yet.

 

"My main focus is San Miguel. I don't want to think about it right now," said the 13-time PBA All Star. "I want to be fair to my teammates, my coaching staff, my management and just come out and stay focused with the task at hand and that's to bring back the crown." - AMD, GMA News