2011-12 PBA preview: Will Japeth Aguilar finally blossom in Talk ‘N Text?

FIBA file photo

Coach: Chot Reyes
Assistants: Nash Racela, Jamike Jarin, Josh Reyes
Lineup: Jimmy Alapag, Harvey Carey, Ryan Reyes, Larry Fonacier, Pamboy Raymundo, Jason Castro, Jared Dillinger, Kelly Williams, Japeth Aguilar, Ranidel de Ocampo, Ali Peek, Rich Alvarez, Aaron Aban, Gilbert Lao

Offseason Review: After being foiled in its bid for a rare PBA Grand Slam, the Talk ‘N Text reloaded in the offseason, bringing in 2009 top pick Japeth Aguilar from SMART-Gilas and second round draft pick Pamboy Raymundo.

But another offseason development could also take its toll on the Tropang Texters. Kelly Williams, Ranidel de Ocampo, and Jimmy Alapag joined SMART-Gilas for the 2011 FIBA-Asia Championship, and were barely able to get rest during the break.

With Talk ‘N Text coming off a gruelling 2010-11 season, the health of the trio, as well as the rest of the squad, is a concern for the Tropang Texters.

Still, with an intact lineup and a couple of promising additions, Talk ‘N Text had a great offseason, as they look to be the first team to defend the all-Filipino crown since 1985

Outlook: “I’m picking Talk ‘N Text as [the favorite] once more because it has bolstered its lineup more with the inclusion of Japeth Aguilar,” said Meralco coach Ryan Gregorio.

“Japeth is one of the reasons why Talk ‘N Text is the title favorite,” said Petron assistant Gee Abanilla. “Not only did the team kept its lineup intact, it has also added a player who do great things for them, especially in providing energy on the defensive end.”

Perhaps the best thing going for Japeth Aguilar in Talk ‘N Text is that the team doesn’t really need him. There’s no pressure for him to deliver because players like Williams, De Ocampo, and Ali Peek are there to pick up the slack.

That would allow Aguilar to just play his game without pressure, which would hopefully translate into him finally fulfilling his potential.

The blueprint for the 6-foot-9 beanpole’s development would from the development Talk ‘N Text guard Jason Castro, who blossomed into a lethal weapon even as he shared backcourt duties with Jimmy Alapag. Because Alapag was a steady floor general, it allowed Castro to develop at his own pace, focus on his strengths, and become the player he is today –  that is, the most unstoppable point guard in the league.

Could the same thing happen for Japeth?

Talk ‘N Text would surely hope so.

Follow @interaksyon