Jul 17, 2020

NLEX rookie Ayonayon bracing for Guiao's 'tough love'

MIKE Ayonayon is bracing for a tough rookie season in the PBA.

Physically, mentally, and verbally.

Ayonayon admitted he needs to have the inner strength not only to survive the physical demands of playing as a pro, but also to endure the nature of coach Yeng Guiao as a tough drillmaster.

Dealing with Guiao's on-court personality is actually one of the things the rookie guard has to get used to as per advice by most of the Road Warriors, according to Ayonayon.

"Hindi ko dapat didibdibin yung mga sinasabi niya. Yung lang naman advice sa akin ng mga beterano sa amin," he said. "Stay focused lang ako sa game."

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A former Philippine Christian University (PCU) stalwart, Ayonayon was taken by NLEX in the first round of the 2019 regular draft following a notable career with the San Juan Knights in the MPBL, where he won a championship and was adjudged Finals MVP.

Guiao, a fierce mentor on court, but a humble person outside, initially likes what he saw with Ayonayon during the series of tune-up games the Road Warriors played before the season was indefinitely postponed four months ago with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"He doesn't play like a rookie," said Guiao of his freshman guard. "He is not a project. He is almost a ready-made PBA player."

Despite the kind words coming from his coach, Ayonayon is not letting his guards down.

"Excited at nine-nerbiyos, kasi si coach Yeng, medyo (matindi) magsalita," said a smiling Ayonayon.

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With PBA teams gearing up for their return to workouts, Ayonayon made sure he somehow stayed fit and conditioned during the four months when the league was on a break.

"Skinny kasi ako e, kaya doon ako nag-focus na magpa-lakas ng kaunti para pagdating ng games, makakasabay ako kahit papaano," said Ayonayon as he appeared in the rookie edition of PBA Kamustahan.(RG)