Lee, Barroca left in awe as Rafi Reavis outshines Fajardo in Game 3

Rafi Reavis’ commendable performances in the 2019 PBA Philippine Cup playoffs have now extended into the Finals.

The 41-year-old slotman imposed his length and agility en route to 16 points and 15 rebounds, with two steals to lift the Magnolia Hotshots past San Miguel Beermen, 86-82, for a 2-1 lead in their best-of-seven championship bout.

Beyond the numbers, though, Reavis impressed with his defense on San Miguel’s main man June Mar Fajardo. The reigning, five-time MVP only had 17 points on 11 shots and 14 rebounds – stats below his standards.

Reavis has been a major presence for the Hotshots.

Last April 28 – in their 63-60 win over Rain or Shine Elasto Painters that booked them the last Finals seat – he hauled down 20 rebounds, becoming the oldest player to achieve the feat in a Game Seven.

So far in the Finals, Reavis is averaging 10.0 points and 10.0 rebounds.

Meanwhile, his fellow Hotshots cannot help but marvel at the player known as the Lastikman.

“Grabe na yung nilalaro nung captain ball namin eh. Maganda ‘yung nilalaro niya,” said Magnolia head coach Chito Victolero of his former teammate in San Juan Knights in MBA.

“If Rafi gives us a good game … We have a good chance.”

“Naghihintay na nga ako maging 41-years-old ako, baka ganun din ako,” joked Paul Lee. “Sobrang valuable ni Cap sa amin kasi ang dami niyang nabibigay eh. Yung energy niya, pagiging leader sa loob ng court, malaking bagay ‘yun.

“Blessed kami na meron kaming Rafi Reavis.”

On the other hand, Mark Barroca lauded, “Si Rafi, nakikita ko talaga yung disiplina niya sa katawan. Hindi ko nakikita sa ibang player eh. Siguro yung ginagawa niya, napapakita niya pa rin sa court. Yun maganda kay Rafi.”

But Reavis – as in previous interviews – said that he’s simply doing his job, nothing special.

“I’m just trying to do my job,” the 11-time champion said. “I’m just trying to take what comes with it, and also hoping it’s a W. So you know, the thing with me, one point, fifteen points, two rebounds, ten rebounds, nothing, it’s all the same to me.

“The only difference is the W and that’s all I care about.’