Blatche wants Strong Group youngsters to learn from making mistakes

MANILA, Philippines – Andray Blatche is making sure his presence is felt as a team leader for the Strong Group Athletics (SGA) team bound for the 33rd Dubai International Basketball Championship, as he urged his teammates to not be afraid of making mistakes.

Much experienced in high-level basketball and the pressure of representing the country, Blatche isn’t keen on expecting perfection from their side of the court. 

But instead of making a fuss about it, the former Gilas Pilipinas naturalized player welcomed the idea of doing something wrong and trying again.

“I like the young group that we have. They’re trying to learn and even when they mess up, they say sorry, but I don’t want them to say sorry.” Blatche told members of the media during SGA’s open training session in Makati City on Wednesday. 

“I want them to keep on going out and make mistakes, that's how you will be better.” 

Though Blatche is going to be flanked by fellow veterans like former NBA star Dwight Howard and Andre Roberson, there are a number of young guns in the lineup, including UAAP champion Kevin Quiambao of the DLSU Green Archers.

Also a fresh face are the likes of UP’s JD Cagulangan, La Salle’s Francis Escandor, and former Gilas mainstay Justine Baltazar.

Knowing that even the best of players can crumble under the pressure of the bright lights of high-level basketball, Blatche is trusting the process.

“I just want them to go out and give it their all. There’s gonna be mistakes like I said. I don’t want them to put their head down, I don’t want them to apologize, I don’t want them to lose confidence.” said the big man. 

“Just keep on going and keep on making mistakes. That’s how you’re going to learn.” he added.