AMA Online Education is certainly all set to come out with a bang as they banner two-time University Athletic Association of the Philippines’ Finals MVP Jeron Teng in the season opener of the Philippine Basketball Association D-League today.
The De La Salle University standout will try to carry AMA OED throughout its campaign in PBA’s developmental league, a necessary duty he has to fulfill as he inches near his dream of playing in Asia’s first pay-for-play league.
“I’m really happy that I’m one step closer to my dream of playing in the PBA,” said the 22-year-old during AMA OED’s media launch at the Bagoong Club in Quezon City.
“I’m really honored to be able to play for AMA and I’m really excited to help AMA in the D-League,” added the D-League’s top draft pick, who feels he needs to bring his A-game to represent one of the country’s top online schools.
Although he has only seen practice with the squad for three weeks, the 6’2” forward bared that team chemistry shouldn’t be a problem in a league a little more physical than the UAAP.
“I expect the D-League to be physical, but I think I’ll be ready. I’ve been hitting the weight room naman lately,” he said.
Asked whether he can steer AMA to be a title contender, better yet, to a championship this season, Teng believes it’s doable.
“It’s not impossible. We have a good squad and a team composed of a good coaching staff, so I think it’s possible with the collective effort we put in,” the former Green Archer added. “We just have to work hard, it’s achievable.”
AMA is set to face new-comer Batangas as they kick-off their campaign in the PBA D-League in a lone opener at the Ynares Center in Pasig.
Game Thursday
(Ynares Sports Arena, Pasig)
2 p.m. – Opening Ceremonies
3 p.m. – AMA Online Education vs Batangas