Kevin Alas: An ace up Cone’s sleeves

KEVIN Alas was one of four last-minute replacements for Gilas Pilipinas in the 19th Asian Games. But the NLEX veteran guard showed he can deliver for the team when needed.

The 31-year-old Alas made his nine minutes of playing time count, particularly in the critical juncture of the fourth quarter where he scored all five of his points.

Kevin Alas was a revelation for Gilas Pilipinas in the 19th Asian Games. SBP PHOTO 

Alas’ personal 5-0 run midway in the final quarter pushed Gilas Pilipinas to within 67-71. From there, Justin Brownlee took over and went to lead the Filipinos’ strong finishing kick en route to a stunning 77-76 victory against host China and advance to the gold medal round on Wednesday night.

“Of course it’s a blessing. I’m just happy representing NLEX here at Gilas and I just told myself that when coach Tim (Cone) lets me play, I just need to be ready,” Alas told One Sports during the post-game interview.

“It just so happens that when I got the chance to play, I was able to deliver.”

The 2014 PBA second overall pick thanked Cone for reminding him to simply play his game once he gets to the court.

“He (Cone) told me (during timeout) that I was kind of passive. He told me that he wants me to play the way I played for NLEX,” recalled the six-foot guard out of Letran.

“I told myself, once I get a good look, I’ll take it or I’ll just attack. I’m very grateful that coach Tim encouraged me to just play my game.”

And while netizens talked about Brownlee’s heroics, Cone praised Alas during the post-game chat with One Sports.

“I thought Kevin did a great job for us. He came and played some key minutes and early and midway through the fourth (quarter),” said Cone.