ROOKIE Enoch Valdez got more than a passing grade from NLEX coach Frankie Lim.
Valdez, the youngest active player in the PBA today at 23 years old, finally showed what he can offer on the table for the Road Warriors after a 19-point, nine rebound effort in the team's 107-103 win over Converge Wednesday night.
The 6-foot-2 guard hit two critical baskets from three-point range in the fourth quarter to hold off the FiberXers and help the Road Warriors keep their playoffs bid alive.
Lim describes Valdez as a great player, who's aggressive and diligent in practice.
"He comes in early (to) takes some shots, and gets out of the gym late. Nag e-extra siya and it's paying off."
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A product of Lyceum, Valdez didn't get on board for NLEX until last Dec. 7 as he had to finish off his duties with the Pirates, who reached the NCAA Final Four but lost to eventual champion San Beda Red Lions.
In the four games he played so far for the Road Warriors, where they went 2-2, Valdez averaged 11.0 points and 4.2 rebounds.
"I like the way he plays, very aggressive," according to Lim. "Ang galing dumipensa. He can shoot threes, and pag sa takbuhan sa lay ups, maaasahan mo."
The NLEX coach actually first laid his eyes on the rookie prior to last year's Rookie Draft.
Valdez worked out with the Road Warriors in practice and Lim immediately liked what he saw.
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"I was already telling to my coaches, I'm going to pick this guy pag ito nag-landing sa atin. I'm going to get him for sure," he said.
True enough, Valdez was still available when the Road Warriors took their turns and lost no time to pick him in the second round at no. 18 overall.
Later on, he was signed to a two-year deal by the team.
Now Valdez is giving back all that trust NLEX gave to him.(RG)
