Akil Mitchell delivered a preview of his all-around prowess when he lifted Meralco to an 81-80 win over the Busan KCC Egis in the East Asia Super League Home And Away Season 2 late Wednesday at the Philsports Complex in Pasig City.
Mitchell dropped 33 points and 22 rebounds in his first official game with the Bolts ahead of the Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup starting 27 November.
Bolts coach Luigi Trillo was greatly impressed not just by Mitchell’s on-court performance but also by his attitude and professionalism as well.
“This guy led us with his big rebounds and I think the nice thing about bringing Akil is he’s a professional,” Trillo said.
“He’s been around. He knows how to win, just like our former import AD (Allen Durham).”
Trillo said Mitchell shares some similarities with Cliff Hodge and De La Salle University star Mike Phillip, who are both hardworking, high-character forwards.
“He’s (Mitchell) got his motor running. He’s like a bigger version of Cliff Hodge or Mike Phillips,” Trillo said.
“Character-wise, we did background checks. He’s played all over the world and not only has he played all over the world, but he’s been a professional and he’s won. He came from Puerto Rico, they won there.”
Meralco currently boasts a 2-1 win-loss record in Group B.
After the Bolts lost to Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in the PBA Governors’ Cup quarterfinals, they are ready to contend for another title with Mitchell around.
The 32-year-old cager recently had a stint with the Qingdao Eagles in the Chinese Basketball Association.