RR Garcia vows to keep on improving as SMB heads to semis

MANILA, Philippines – As he prepares to play in the semifinals for the first time in his PBA career, San Miguel guard RR Garcia vows to increase his contributions to a team that is eyeing a third consecutive All-Filipino Cup title.

In his first playoff game as a Beermen, Garcia exploded for 25 points off the bench, making seven of his 11 field goals including five of seven three-pointers. His 11-point output in the second period helped the Beermen post a 16-point advantage, and he added 12 more points in the final frame of what turned out to be a 98-91 victory.

"First time ko mag-semis," said Garcia, who was traded to San Miguel in the offseason from the Star Hotshots. "Sabi ni coach, may history ang San Miguel na natatalo sa first game 'pag twice-to-beat. Pinatunayan namin na 'di na mauulit."

Garcia was hesitant when first sent in the game, even twice passing up open shots early in the second quarter. But he soon gained confidence, knocking down back-to-back triples to help the Beermen surge ahead by double-digits, 48-38.

"Ganoon naman sa practice," said Garcia. "Sinasabihan ako na 'pag libre, tira lang. Wala namang mawawala kung 'di maka-shoot. Binibigyan talaga nila ako ng kumpyansa."

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His shooting touch seemed to rub off on his teammates, as Gabby Espinas – a forward not usually known for his outside shot – canned a three-pointer of his own. Garcia knocked down a third triple with 3:40 left to put San Miguel ahead, 48-34.

"Kailangan ko mag-step up, kasi 'di lang 'yung first group ang aasahan namin," said Garcia, who scored the bulk of San Miguel's 38 bench points. "Dapat pati second group, makatulong para manalo 'yung team."

Garcia was playing so well that coach Leo Austria even opted to keep him in the game during crunch time, and later praised the former UAAP MVP for his tremendous shooting.

"I have to commend our players, especially RR, dahil nag-step up siya," said Austria. "If not for his outside shooting, I think we're in trouble."

Garcia won't deny that he is excited to play in the semifinals for the first time ever, where SMB will play either TNT KaTropa or GlobalPort Batang Pier.

"Excited ako na makapasok sa semis," sadi Garcia. "Mas tataasan ko pa 'yung iko-contribute ko sa team."

"'Di kami aasa na hanggang doon na lang. Sa practice pa lang, kailangan mag-extra at 'di makuntento," he stressed.

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