Barangay Ginebra defends Scottie Thompson in Game 1 of the 2022 PBA Commissioners Cup Finals at the Mall of Asia Arena. PBA . IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—Scottie Thompson, Barangay Ginebra’s standout player, likened himself to a medium when asked about a colorful year in his young professional career.
“Just like with cars, I guess you could say I’ve come a considerable distance,” he chuckles to the Inquirer. “But it was really fun.”
Thompson, just 29 years old, has already scored a number of milestones this 2022.
His Gin Kings won the Governors Cup in the summer. A few weeks later, he became the Best Player of the Philippine Basketball Association. He later returned to the national team and became an integral part of the show. Now, he’s on the verge of ending his year with another professional title as the crowd favorites against the Bay Area Dragons are visiting in a best-of-seven duel.
“From a championship for Gilas, then back to playing for another crown now. I’m really lucky to be able to do my job, which is to play the game that I love,” he said with a laugh.
Thompson has only played his seventh season in the avant-garde pro league, which mathematically helps him earn more prizes if he stays healthy.
But he seems to have figured that part out.
“(My journey) has been difficult, but rewarding,” said the Digos City resident. “So the rest has become non-negotiable.”
“As much as possible, whenever I can get some extra sleep, I really try. I even actually talked to my wife and asked to take a break from shopping (on vacation),” said Thompson with a laugh.
“So far we have handled it well. The rest is still very important to me. Especially sleep,” he continued.
Thompson’s impeccable play made him one of the top contenders for the Conference’s Player of the Year award, winning 32.1 statistical points, second only to 33.9 of the players. NorthPort guard Robert Bolick.
He continued to solidify his bid on Christmas Day, scoring 14 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists in the crowd-loving 96-81 win over the Bay Area at the Mall of Asia. Arena.
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