MANILA, Philippines – After proving themselves as two of the best and most versatile players in the collegiate ranks, young guards Jiovani Jalalon and Scottie Thompson are set to elevate their friendly rivalry to the big stage.
Star rookie Jalalon and fan favorite Thompson of Ginebra face off for the first time ever in their PBA careers on Christmas Day's Manila Clasico at the Philippine Arena.
"Excited din ako na first time sa big league na makakatapat ko ulit si Jiovani," said Thompson, the former NCAA MVP from University of Perpetual Help who immediately endeared himself to Ginebra fans with his ability to impact the game in multiple ways and seemingly non-stop motor.
Jalalon, who was taken by Star in the special draft for Gilas Cadet players, anticipates that PBA fans will be thrilled to watch them go at each other anew.
"Maraming matutuwa, kasi Manila Clasico eh. Maghahanda ako, kung ano ang sasabihin ni coach para pagdating sa Sunday, handa ako," he said. "Kahit magkaibigan kami ni Scottie, pagdating sa court, iba na siguro."
Jalalon has had some solid games in his rookie season, and just recently, the former Arellano University star hit the go-ahead floater against Rain or Shine in what turned out to be a 99-91 win for the Hotshots.
Yet he acknowledged that Thompson may have an advantage over him come Christmas Day.
"Si Scottie, sanay na sa PBA," he pointed out.
"Gagawin ko lang, mag-focus sa depensa ko," he added. "Kung ano man ang sabihin ni Coach Chito (Victolero), gawin ko lang. Kung magkatapat namin kami, lalaro kami ng maayos."
Thompson, for his part, has more than his match-up with Jalalon to worry about. The Gin Kings will enter the game on the heels of an 86-101 loss against Alaska, which saw them trail by as much as 30 points. Thompson had eight points and seven rebounds in the game, but as a whole the entire Ginebra team struggled.
"Kailangan namin manalo," said Thompson. "Kailangan, 'yung mga mali namin ngayon, kailangan mai-tama namin against sa Star. Lalo na sa practice, kailangan doon namin simulan."
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