As another Finals stint looms, Oftana feels nerves
TNT star Calvin Oftana says that some things never change.
The Tropang 5G may be marching to their fourth straight PBA Finals appearance after bouncing Meralco in the Philippine Cup semifinals, 4-1, but he still feels the same jitters as he prepares for another title clash.
“This is it, right? This is what we worked hard for, this is the team’s dream and our dream, not just for us but for everyone in the franchise,” he said following the team’s 99-96 win over the Bolts in Game 5 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday.
“If you ask me, I still get nervous every game, but I love it. I want those nerves so I don’t get overconfident. Every game is different and that’ll be the same case with the Finals.”
Erram’s take
Even Poy Erram feels that being in the Finals again won’t make things easier for TNT.
“It’s a familiar territory, sure, but whoever wins between Ginebra or San Miguel, they’re a different team. It’s always a different team every season,” he told the Inquirer.
“I’ll just stay ready. My mind has changed. I know that there are times when I’ll be used and times when I won’t be,” he added.
“With me, I’ll do whatever coach asks of me. Whether he uses me for 30 minutes or a few seconds, I’ll be ready. Whatever I can help with the team, I’ll do it.”
The Beermen and the Gin Kings are locked in a battle for the second Finals berth, with San Miguel leading the series, 3-2.
