Jeron’s ultimate dream

A PBA championship has so far eluded Jeron Teng and now that he’s with San Miguel Beer, the chase for a title may end sooner than later or at least that’s how the former La Salle star figures it. Teng, 29, was released by Converge with no strings attached and drew attention from several teams during the offseason. San Miguel was particularly attractive because his father Alvin made a name for himself as a Beerman and family tradition is big with the Tengs.

As it turned out, San Miguel made an offer that Teng was more than happy to accept. No frills, no protracted negotiations, no hemming, no hawing. Teng knew it was the right team for him at this point in his career. When he signed up, Teng admitted not knowing how to fit in coach Jorge Gallent’s system but he’s determined to contribute in any way he’s asked. “It’s about earning your minutes,” he said. “Coach Jorge is known as a players’ coach and I’m excited to learn from him and my teammates. I’m inspired by everyone, particularly Kuya June Mar (Fajardo) with the way he works so hard to improve himself and help our team succeed. I’ve been welcomed warmly by my teammates. I couldn’t ask anything more.”

Whether it’s playing behind CJ Perez or Jericho Cruz or Marcio Lassiter or coming off the bench or starting, Teng said he’s ready to accept whatever role he’s given. In five PBA seasons playing for Alaska and Converge, Teng has matured into an impact player. Last season, he averaged a personal best 12.9 points and shot 44 percent from the field, also a career high. But he’s never played on a championship squad. His older brother Jeric beat him to the draw, having played on a title team with Rain or Shine.

Teng, the youngest of four, was a standout at Xavier from elementary. In high school, he scored 104 points in Xavier’s 164-74 win over Grace Christian. In college, Teng was a two-time UAAP Finals MVP and an anchor on two La Salle UAAP champion teams. A PBA title remains missing in his resume.

Although a PBA championship is in his sights, Teng recently took another prize that he’ll cherish forever. He got married to long-time girlfriend Jeanine Tsoi. They met when Jeanine was La Salle’s courtside reporter for the UAAP TV coverage. Teng remembered being asked for an interview by Jeanine and conveniently gave his cell number so they could communicate. The attraction came naturally for Teng but while Jeanine worked as a reporter, their relationship was strictly professional. It was different when they graduated and their love for each other blossomed.

Because of Jeanine’s exposure to sports, she understands what it’s like to be a high-performing athlete. “I know how important it is for Jeron to get his rest,” she said. And Teng said he appreciates how Jeanine supports him unconditionally in pursuing his basketball career. It’s a marriage that grew out of a common passion for sports and it’s a love story that tugs at the heart.