Peter Alfaro makes every opportunity count with Magnolia

Rookie Peter Alfaro proved on Thursday that he was ready to step up for Magnolia.

In the absence of the injured Paul Lee, Alfaro was one of those who stepped up for the Hotshots' 110-104 over Phoenix.

The San Beda product had 14 points, 11 in the first half, along with four assists, three rebounds, and one steal.

For the Zamboanga native, he is just making every opportunity count with the Hotshots.

"Always stay ready lang. 'Yun nga sinasabi ng mga kuya ko kasi we know we have a deep roster pero 'yung chances na ibibigay sa'kin, medyo maiksi so every opportunity na nasa loob ako, I try to make it count talaga, every minute every possession. I really appreciate yung teammates ko having my back," he said.

Having mentors such as Lee and Mark Barroca also helped him for this new role, along with his preparations while he was on the reserved list.

"Sobrang na-appreciate ko mga kuya ko kasi I think they know 'yung capabilities ko," he said.

"For me, hindi ako kinakabahan kasi I'm really prepared for this. Nung ni-reserve ako ni Coach Chito [Victolero], ginawa ko 'yung stepping stone, nag-practice ako mag-isa, I did extra work for myself. I think I really deserve this game and hopefully, 'di ito 'yung last."

Alfaro also earned the praise of his coach after his breakthrough performance.

"He's coming from the reserved [list] but he has a heart of a lion because he's from San Beda, that's why siguro malaking factor 'yun because he's a member of a champion team," Victolero said.

Alfaro and the Red Lions won the NCAA men's basketball title in 2023. The Magnolia rookie was drafted 23rd by Terrafirma but ended up with the Hotshots.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News