Jeron Teng realized the dream of his father — Alvin — when he made his debut for San Miguel Beer in the Commissioner’s Cup of the Philippine Basketball Association on Wednesday.
Alvin said he was overflowing with pride seeing his son formally donning the colors of the team that he led to a rare grand slam in 1989.
Known as the “Robocop” during his playing days, Alvin gained a reputation of being a solid interior defender with a feather touch from the perimeter. His son, Jeron, followed his footsteps and had a stellar collegiate career for De La Salle University before being taken with the fifth overall pick in the 2017 Annual Rookie Draft.
He played for Alaska and Converge before walking into the free agency that led him to the Beermen.
“I’m so happy because this was my former team,” the elder Teng told Daily Tribune in an interview.
“It was our dream that he will be playing for San Miguel.”
In his Beermen debut, Teng finished with two points in 15 minutes of action.
San Miguel coach Jorge Gallent, however, believes that it is only a matter of time before he unravels his true potential.
“His time will come,” Gallent said.
“He’s still trying to figure out his role on the team, but we know he’ll make more contributions as the tournament progresses.”
Alvin said he is hoping for the best for his son.
“Some of the members of the coaching staff were my former teammates, so I’m sure they’ll take care of Jeron. I would also like to thank San Miguel management, Boss RSA (Ramon S. Ang) and Boss Alfrancis Chua for giving Jeron the opportunity,” Alvin said.
Teng stressed that replicating the feats of his dad will not be easy but he will do everything to lead the Beermen to their first title since the Philippine Cup in 2022.
“I just hope I can make him proud,” Teng said.
“I’m in a better position to win a championship and I’ll do whatever it takes to make it happen.”
“Of course, much of the success will depend on my teammates and the coaching staff. I’m really looking forward to be a part of something special.”
