Meralco coach Norman Black plans to extend Jared Dillinger's playing time on Friday when the Bolts attempt to repeat over the Phoenix Fuel Masters to advance to the PBA Governors' Cup semi-finals.
Dillinger played seven minutes in his return Wednesday to help the Bolts take a 90-74 victory over the Fuel Masters and force a knockout match for the semi-final seat.
The 10-year veteran was out for most of the elimination because of a quad injury.
Despite his limited playing time, Dillinger managed to make his presence felt and visibly pleased Black, who believes JD could play a significant role in Friday's the do-or-die match at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
"Now that I have seen that he can play, he will play more," said Black, praising Dillinger for his defensive effort on Phoenix's energetic star Calvin Abueva.
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"I didn't know if I wanted to force him in this situation - a do-or-die game - because he hasn't played the entire conference. But he showed me that he can get out there and give me a few minutes. Definitely, he'll show up on Friday," Black added.
Dillinger vows to do whatever he can to keep the Bolts' achieve their goal.
"You gotta be ready to go out there," said the 34-year-old Dillinger. "I'm not 25 anymore so it's taking me longer to get activated and get my legs fired. But I'm gonna do all that I can just to help the guys out anyway I can." (JT)
