Cory Yap's inspiration in Tianjin

TIANJIN – James Yap said his mother-in-law, the late former President Cory Aquino, was a big inspiration as he churned out a solid game helping Powerade Team Pilipinas score the crucial 78-69 win over Japan Thursday here.

Though away from the game for over a week, Yap still showed a good shooting touch, going 3-of-5 from the three-point area with the last eventually scuttling the Japanese’ bid.

“That’s for her (Mrs. Aquino). I know she’s somewhere watching. She really wanted me to be with the team, for me to play for flag and country,” said Yap.

Yap rushed home from the William Jones Cup tournament in Taipei two weeks ago to be with his wife, Kris Aquino, and her family when he received word that Mrs. Aquino’s condition had taken a turn for the worse.

When the former president died, a decision was made for Yap to stay behind until after the funeral Wednesday.

He had not touched a ball since the Jones Cup but didn’t lose his touch.

“I was focused on the game. I really wanted to make mom proud and happy,” said Yap.

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Powerade Team Pilipinas had reigned supreme in the SEABA championship and won two games in the Jones Cup largely through the efforts of its backcourt, wing players and Japeth Aguilar.

Finally, Sonny Thoss, Asi Taulava and Mick Pennisi came to deliver for the team against the Japanese.

“It’s good to be of big help even with my condition,” said Pennisi, hurting with a sore back.

“This is great. We delivered when it mattered the most,” said Thoss.

“I felt like playing with the legs of a 21-year-old,” said Taulava.

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It helped that Japanese hotshot Takehiko Orimo wasn’t able to play due to a bum stomach.

There’s also another key Japanese player missing the tournament due to technicality.

When told of this, RP coach Yeng Guiao was quick to point out that the Nationals also lost two key players in Kelly Williams and Ryan Reyes.                      – Nelson Beltran