MANILA, Philippines – Jeff Chan had been used to having Barangay Ginebra’s legion of fans root against him and his former teams that it has become an unusual feeling having them cheer for him. 

Chan, who has played two games for the Gin Kings since his trade from the Phoenix Fuel Masters less than two weeks ago, admitted he hasn’t gotten used to the overhwelming fan support of the league’s crowd darlings.

“Sanay ako na against sa Ginebra. Now, medyo iba ang feeling, kakampi na. Lahat chini-cheer ka. Makukuha ko rin ‘yun,” said the veteran sharpshooter. 

(I am used to going up against Ginebra. Now, it is a different feeling because I am part of them. Everybody is cheering for you. I will get used to it.) 

It is not just the rowdy fans the 35-year-old needs to adapt to but Ginebra’s system, as well. 

So far, Chan is averaging 4.0 points, 3.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists with the Gin Kings – a major dip from his per game counts of 11.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.2 steals with Phoenix in the Commissioner’s Cup. 

Chan has also yet to make a 3-pointer – the specialty he has been known for 10 years in the PBA – as a member of Ginebra. 

“Medyo nakaka-pressure kasi parang every time na hawak ko ‘yung bola, ine-expect ng mga tao, mashu-shoot ko,” Chan said. 

(I feel slightly pressured since every time that I hold the ball, the fans are expecting me to make my shots.) 

“Actually, ‘di ko pa talaga alam ‘yung iba, lalo na ‘yung mga defensive adjustment namin, defensive plays. Anytime na papasok si LA (Tenorio) o si Justin (Brownlee), sila Joe (Devance), tinatanong ko kung ano ‘yung gagawin ko, kung saan ako.” 

(Actually, I still have to learn the plays, especially our defensive adjustments and plays. Anytime LA, Justin or Joe Devance come in, I ask them what I should do and where I should be.) 

Although he is still trying to find his touch within coach Tim Cone’s triangle offense, Chan does not seem to mind his numbers, especially since Ginebra has yet to lose since adding him. 

“Hindi naman goal ko na maka-shoot ng apat na 3-points pero talo naman. At least, panalo kami,” he added.

(My goal is not to make 4 3-pointers but we end up losing. At least, we are winning.) 

A breakout game from Chan will surely be appreciated as the Ginebra (5-5) seeks to secure a quarterfinals seat with a win against the GlobalPort Batang Pier (5-5) at the Cuneta Astrodome on July 6. – Rappler.com