No 'tsamba': Chris Tiu says Manny Pacquiao's first career basket a 'legit field goal'

When Filipino ring icon Manny Pacquiao hit his first career field goal on Sunday against Rain or Shine, the Mahindra playing coach played it down as merely "tsamba."

But for Chris Tiu, the defender he scored against, it was a legitimate basket for the Pambansang Kamao.

The Elasto Painter point guard does not want to take away anything from the eight-division champion, and instead relished their moments on the court together.

"I think it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience to be on the same floor in an official professional game," said Tiu, who scored eight points in Rain or Shine's 108-94 victory.

"Nagkataon sa akin pa naka-shoot si Manny. Pero legitimate 'yun, legitimate field goal sa PBA," he added.

Pacquiao sank a jumper against Tiu with 10 minutes left in the second quarter, his first field goal after making just a free throw in four games last season.

The play drew cheers from the Sunday crowd awaiting the Manila Clasico match between Star and Ginebra.

"Nakakatuwa lang kasi kahit hindi pa nga siya humahawak ng bola, tumitili na talaga 'yung buong Araneta," Tiu said. "At least alam natin nag-e-enjoy 'yung fans." - RAF, GMA News