Von Pessumal finally responds to Brgy. Ginebra’s call

Von Pessumal finally got into a good rhythm in the PBA On Tour after scoring 29 points in Brgy. Ginebra’s dramatic 108-107 come-from-behind victory over Rain or Shine at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

It was by far the finest preseason performance of the streak-shooting wing, who recorded four three-pointers and eight rebounds.

Aware of Pessumal’s recent struggles with his game, assistant coach Richard Del Rosario decided to insert him into the starting lineup to boost his confidence.

“A lot of people are noticing lang na `yung scoring ni Von is going down,” he said.

“But he’s helping us in a lot of areas especially in rebounding. And we’re trying to evolve his game na hindi lang siya spot up shooter because we don’t have a post presence. So we want him to be aggressive in attacking the basket and creating for our team kasi kailangan namin `yun.”

Del Rosario’s shift in strategy appeared to have benefited Pessumal.

By the conclusion of the third quarter, the the former Ateneo gunner had scored 25 points while carrying the Gin Kings on his shoulders as the Elasto Painters attempted to create separation between them.

In the fourth quarter, Nards Pinto took over for Pessumal, scoring 10 of his 14 points before Jayson David scored consecutive baskets in the final 1:49 to set the stage for an exciting finish.

However, Del Rosario was elated to see Pessumal regaining his confidence.

“We’ve never lose confidence and trust in Von. We know the type of player that he is and it’s going to do well for him and for us moving forward,” he added.