MANILA, Philippines -- Paul Lee is not in a hurry to get his game back since returning from a left knee injury that forced him to miss the first 13 games of the Smart Bro-PBA Philippine Cup.
But one thing Lee assured Rain or Shine fans is his 100-percent effort when he's on the floor in the ongoing semifinal series against defending champion San Miguel Beer.
The six-foot combo guard from the University of the East was actually on target in Game Two Thursday night after finishing with a near double-double performance of 11 points and seven rebounds to help Rain or Shine hold off San Miguel, 105-97 and force a 1-1 series.
Lee strung up five straight points at the height of the Beermen's second half rally. The "Lee-that Weapon" buried a corner three, before adding a floater to keep SMB at bay.
"Medyo umangat nga yung kumpiyansa ko dun (his shots made) saka nandun din mga teammates ko na sabihan ako to keep on shooting kahit na sumablay," Lee told sports scribes.
And given the offseason acquisitions made by the team, the former PBA Rookie of the Year said he can contribute in other facets of the game such as setting his teammates up and rebounding.
"Gagawin ko lang naman kung ano maitu-tulong ko sa team gaya ng assist, rebounds, hindi Lang sa score," he added.
Come Saturday, Rain or Shine will be shooting for a 2-1 lead, but the soft-spoken guard admitted it will only be possible if they play defense with consistency.
"Kailangan talaga kapag lumamang, pukpok lang talaga. Eh sa last quarter (of Game Two), bumaba yung lamang namin, dapat hindi ganun," he said.