TNT's Kevin Ferrer. Paige Javier, ABS-CBN News
MANILA – Despite already being a two-time PBA champion, Kevin Ferrer said he is feeling like a rookie again ahead of his official debut for the TNT Tropang 5G in PBA Season 50.
Ferrer was in high spirits as he spoke to reporters during PBA Media Day on Thursday, donning the jersey of his new team.
"Sobrang excited dahil new environment, new team, and new journey. Kinakabahan din kasi parang rookie ulit ako," he said.
Earlier this month, Ferrer said he signed a one-year deal with TNT after he was not offered a new deal by the Terrafirma Dyip after the end of his contract in June.
"Parang ilang months din akong walang team. Kinausap ako ni Coach Jo and 'yung manager ko kinausap ni Coach Jolas. Nag-decide talaga ako ng new team talaga, new environment, new me," he shared of his journey to TNT.
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With his entry to TNT, Ferrer reunites with former Gilas head coach Chot Reyes and Roger Pogoy, who he was in the same batch with during the Gilas Special Draft in 2016.
"Yung experience ko na rin madadala ko sa TNT. Knowing Coach Chot, matagal din kaming nagsama. Alam ko na rin sistema niya. Maturity din yung madadala ko," he said.
"Medyo nahirapan din [mag-adjust]. Iba yung naging experience ko eh. 'Di rin ako nahirapan dahil same system, parang Gilas cadets," Ferrer added.
Pogoy said he is looking forward to being teammates with Ferrer, his fellow Gilas cadet, who he believes has a lot to bring to the team.
Ferrer looks forward to helping TNT bounce back from their runner-up finish in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup.
Reyes said Ferrer will play a "pretty big role" for the team that is need of big men.
"He's going to bring a lot of veteran smarts and depth to our rotation. As you know, we're kind of lacking in the big man department and while Kevin is not exactly a big man, I think he's going to be an important addition to that spot," he said.
Rey Nambatac welcomed the addition of Ferrer to the team, who he believes can contribute to both ends of the court.
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"Si Kevin malaking bagay na nakuha namin siya. Para sa akin, two-way player siya eh. Kung hahanapan mo siya ng scoring, may outside shooting din siya. Kung hahanapan mo siya ng defense, kaya rin niya dumepensa ng import," he said.
"Kahit papaano, lalo si Glenn yun lagi assignment niya sa import season. Or kahit sinong go-to guys na mga kalaban namin. Kahit papaano may ka-relyebo siya," Nambatac added.
Ferrer said he is recovering well from his previous injuries, with the hopes of starting a new chapter with the team that was close to winning a Grand Slam.