Doing the extra shooting after a Monday practice session, long-time Gilas Pilipinas team member Roger Pogoy sank 15 straight three-point shots from different spots before wrapping up his routine.
Such shooting spree was seen from the TNT Tropang Giga standout, who has been able to rediscover his old, deadly form in the ongoing Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup.
Pogoy has led all players — imports and locals — both in three-points made and three-point shooting percentage in the midseason tournament.
The 6-foot-2 swingman has an average of 4.6 three-point shots made while also hitting a steady 53.5 percent shooting from beyond the arc.
For Pogoy, working double shift, practicing for Gilas Pilipinas and the Tropang Giga, had allowed him to regain his deadly touch from the rainbow area and it has manifested in the recent games of the Tropang Giga in the import-laced tourney.
In five games, he has averaged 20 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.8 steals to lead TNT locals in scoring as his performance from both ends allowed the Tropang Giga to stay in the top three of the standings with a 3-2 win-loss record.
“It’s all about mindset,” Pogoy told Daily Tribune in an interview.
“There are conferences where you would struggle to get your game going, like in the Governors’ Cup. I was not shooting well in that tournament. My mindset is really to bounce back strong.”
Pogoy’s extra work has benefited his game and he’s ready to play, both for the Tropang Giga and Gilas Pilipinas, which is preparing for the fifth window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers this November.
Gilas will be taking on their Jordanian rivals on 10 November in Amman and will be battling the Saudis on 13 November in Dammam.
Pogoy is making a strong case for his potential inclusion in the fifth window and he’s one among the players vying for spots in the final 12.
“I did spend extra time to regain my shooting form,” Pogoy added.
“I need to do double practices and it added to my confidence.”
