Jacob Cortez shared that San Beda University's preseason training sessions with NBA star Klay Thompson helped boost not only his game but more so his confidence.
The Red Lions flew to the USA last month to hold a two-week training camp where they were able to train with the Golden State Warriors gunner, an opportunity which Cortez said allowed him to improve himself.
"Siguro confidence because may isang play na natirahan ko si Klay but just realizing na after ko maglaro no’n how my game has matured," Cortez said after steering the Red Lions past Arellano on Tuesday.
(Perhaps the confidence because there was one play where I shot over him but I realized after that how my game has matured.)
"But there's still a long way to go after the first game. Still a lot of games to be played."
The San Beda guard also participated in a camp handled by Thompson during the latter's visit to Manila.
Cortez stepped on the gas right away for the redemption-seeking Red Lions, igniting for three triples in the second quarter against the Chiefs as San Beda took a 57-26 halftime lead.
With Arellano's defense focused on the third year guard, other San Beda players were left open as they cruised to the victory despite a better second half showing from Arellano.
"Siguro I don’t look at it that way but yeah, the defense was more focused on me but that gives my teammates more time to execute and more looks," Cortez added.
"And grabe ‘yung tiwala ko sa kanila (I really trust them)."
Cortez, who usually came off the bench last season, started for San Beda this time and put together 16 points laced with three rebounds, and five assists.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
