Filipino basketball superstar Jayson Castro, also known as "The Blur," has once again proved his worth as he helped his team, the TNT Tropang Giga, clinch their first-ever governor's cup title in the 2023 edition of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).
In a recent interview with DZRH Matchpoint Exclusive, Castro shared his thoughts on their intense basketball series against the formidable Barangay Ginebra San Miguel team.
"Sobrang napakahirap no'ng series na 'yon," he admitted.
"Both teams, ang ganda ng mga adjustment. Makikita mo 'yung Game 1, Game 2, Game 3, every game may mga kanya-kanyang adjustments. And, of course, knowing Coach Tim [Cone], isa sa mga pinakamagaling na coach dito sa Pilipinas."
Despite the challenges they faced, the TNT Tropang Giga managed to come out on top, thanks to their impressive execution during crucial moments of the game.
"Siguro medyo sinuwerte lang din kami kasi 'yung last three games namin, during crucial time [ay] nakapag-execute kami nang mabuti," Castro shared.
No coaching plans yet
As Castro prepares to celebrate his 37th birthday this year, he was asked about his plans for the future.
While many basketball players often transition to coaching or other roles after their playing career ends, Castro revealed that he still wants to focus on playing and winning more championships.
"Hindi ko pa naiisip magcoach, mas gusto ko kapag naglalaro ako. At the same [time], [to] win another championship, 'yun ang goal ko lagi. Tsaka ko na iisipin na mag-coach."
On elusive MVP title
Castro is a highly respected player in the PBA, known for his speed, agility, and impressive skills on the court. Despite his dominant performances and successful career, he has never won an MVP title.
However, he revealed in the interview that individual awards have never been his focus.
"Never ko ring pinangarap na makakuha ng MVP or any individual award. Mas okay na 'kong manalo ng championship [at] trophy. ['Yung] individual award para sa 'kin, parang bonus na lang 'yon, as long as mas gusto kong maging successful 'yung team [at] manalo ng championship."
In a fun segment of the interview, Castro was given the opportunity to create his "dream starting five" from Gilas Pilipinas, the Philippines men's national basketball team.
He chose Jimmy Alapag as the point guard, Marcio Lassiter as the shooting guard, Ranidel De Ocampo, Marc Pingris as the power forward, and Andray Blatche as the center.
Jayson Castro's remarkable career in basketball continues to inspire young athletes in the Philippines and beyond.
With his dedication to the sport and his team, he has proven time and time again that he is one of the country's most exceptional basketball players.
To know more about Castro's journey with TNT Tropang Giga and Gilas Pilipinas, watch the exclusive interview at Matchpoint Exclusive:
