PBA: Japeth Aguilar returns for Ginebra ahead of playoffs

Barangay Ginebra big man Japeth Aguilar gets blocked as he tries to dunk on TNT import Bol Bol during aPBA Commissioner’s Cup game at Mall of Asia Arena.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—After being sidelined in the latter half of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup elimination round, Japeth Aguilar returned to Barangay Ginebra’s lineup on Sunday night in their last game before the playoffs.

Although Aguilar didn’t do much numbers-wise, having him back was certainly a big boost for the Gin Kings.

Coach Tim Cone didn’t mind the stats. After all, the veteran big man is still trying to get his rhythm back after a lung problem. Cone, however, expects Aguilar to turn it on in the playoffs when needed.

READ: PBA: Ginebra praises Bol Bol after tough battle vs TNT

“We certainly wanted him to be comfortable getting back to play. We didn’t want to extend his minutes too long but we really wanted him to get in and feel the competition,” said Cone after steering the Gin Kings past the TNT Tropang 5G, 93-86, to clinch the second seed with a 9-3 record.

“That was a tough assignment, but we set up things for him a little early, and as the game progressed, I thought he got better and better. He’ll be a force for us in the playoffs,” added Cone.

The 39-year-old Aguilar, who was out for three games, logged 15 minutes and finished with six points and three rebounds, while also tasked to defend TNT’s 7-foot-3 center Bol Bol.

Ginebra hopes to have Aguilar back in his usual form in their quarterfinal matchup against Phoenix.