PBA: Romeo Travis sheds 'Midrange Murderer' image to hit huge threes for Alaska

Alaska import Romeo Travis has been given the nickname "Midrange Murderer" by fans for his efficient jumpers throughout the Governors' Cup. But while he does have the sweet stroke, he only occasionally takes shots from beyond the arc.


Just a few days ago, the southpaw big man turned to twitter to explain his shooting philosophy.

People ask me why I don't shoot 3s. Cause my mid range close to %70 why shoot something %35

— Romeo Travis (@RomeTrav) July 2, 2015

 

"I'm able to shoot them, I'd just rather shoot something that I feel more confident in going in," he told reporters after the Aces clinched a finals berth with an 82-77 victory over Star Hotshots.

Travis has been actually hitting 61 percent from the two-point area and went only 8-of-24 from deep before the Alaska's crucial Game Three against Star, nailing just one at most every game. His most attempts came during the tight duel against Rain or Shine with five.

But with a finals appearance at stake on Sunday night, the former teammate of NBA superstar LeBron James shot 2-of-2 from downtown, including the clutch three which put the Aces up 79-77 with 1:59 remaining in the payoff period.

"I just felt like it was time for me to step up," said Travis, who finished with 19 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists for a solid all-around performance. "I was open, it was a good shot, I took it. Thank God it went in."

Even though his shot turned the tide of the game for Alaska, he made sure to give credit to his teammates for their contributions.

"We're a team. I hit a big three, but I also made a pass and Vic [Manuel] made a shot," said the import, referring to Manuel's jumper right after his triple in the endgame.

Travis said his PBA stint is not about himself but rather to make his teammates play better and help them win.

"They went to the championship in the All-Filipino. They arguably have the best Filipinos in the league," he said. - RAF, GMA News