San Miguel Beer coach Leo Austria points to the sweltering Philippine weather as a primary factor behind Bennie Boatwright's recent scoring struggles in the PBA.
San Miguel Beer coach Leo Austria has identified an unlikely culprit for import Bennie Boatwright’s recent dip in performance: the punishing Philippine summer heat.
After a blistering start to his PBA tenure, where he averaged 39 points per game, Boatwright looked like a different player during Tuesday’s matchup against Meralco.. The 29-year-old managed only 16 points, shooting a dismal 5-of-20 from the field and failing to connect on any of his six three-point attempts.. As the Beermen fought for a 103-92 comeback victory at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, it became clear that the former USC Trojan was struggling to find his typical rhythm on the hardwood.
The Heat Factor
“What I noticed from him, he was very sluggish, especially during practice.. Maybe he’s still adjusting to our weather,” Austria explained following the win.. The veteran mentor noted that the sweltering conditions affecting the country are not just a nuisance for commuters but a tangible hurdle for professional athletes.. It appears that the team’s struggles have become systemic, with Austria revealing that several members of the roster have been battling seasonal flu and fever-like symptoms caused by the intense environmental stress.
While fans might expect imports to adjust quickly, the physiological impact of high humidity and heat cannot be underestimated.. Athletes who are used to climate-controlled training facilities often find the tropical humidity in the Philippines particularly taxing on their stamina and recovery times.. When an import who typically carries a heavy offensive load experiences such a sudden drop in efficiency, it often signals that the body is working harder just to regulate temperature rather than focusing on explosive movements.
Relying on the Local Core
Despite Boatwright’s off-night, the Beermen proved they have the depth required to survive a crisis.. June Mar Fajardo anchored the comeback with a dominant 21-point, 17-rebound performance, while Don Trollano stepped up with 16 points of his own.. This balanced attack allowed SMB to secure a win that brings them to a 5-5 record, keeping their playoff aspirations alive in a crowded middle-of-the-pack standing.
Looking ahead, the road to the quarterfinals remains precarious.. With their postseason spot still unsecure, Austria is emphasizing the need for consistency.. “Bennie, after this game, I think he will realize he needs to perform well especially in the next two games,” the coach stated.. The team now has a brief window to regroup before facing Terrafirma on May 6 and Phoenix on May 9.. Whether the weather stays as oppressive as the current heat index suggests, the Beermen know they cannot afford another sluggish start if they hope to replicate their previous championship success.