Unfamiliarity could be a problem

Bay Area is coming off a 92-89 loss to Meralco in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup and coach Brian Goorjian is concerned that in the Dragons’ game against Rain or Shine at the Ynares Center in Antipolo today, unfamiliarity with a new playing arena and the Elasto Painters’ replacement import Ryan Pearson could be a problem.

At least, the Dragons won’t find it difficult motoring from their Shangri-La at the Fort hotel to Antipolo because two motorcycle escorts are assigned to clear the way for a smooth ride in the team bus. Goorjian said he plans to bring the Dragons early to the venue so they can try out the hoops and get used to the hardcourt but the fresh experience will be a challenge.

Myles Powell will be back in uniform for the game, taking over from Andrew Nicholson and he’s expected to pick up where he left off after leading Bay Area to a 4-0 start. Under an agreement with the PBA, the Dragons were allowed to suit up Powell for the first four games and Nicholson for the next four. Starting the ninth game against Rain or Shine, Goorjian was given the option to choose between Powell and Nicholson. Powell got the nod and he can play any number of games but may be replaced by Nicholson if injured. Powell, however, may be reinstated.

So far, the Dragons have lost twice. The first setback was an 18-point decision to Barangay Ginebra. Goorjian said the Dragons came from a hard-fought 106-100 win over Converge three days before and had little time to prepare. But no excuses. “Coach Tim (Cone) runs a system, not just plays for his team and took us out of our game,” he said. “Ginebra’s extremely well-coached, they read and react, they know what to do to get (Justin) Brownlee his spots where he is most effective. We’ve seen Brownlee on videos but we never expected him to be that exceptional live on the court. We’re loving the experience of playing in the PBA. We think the officiating is fair and the referees won’t hesitate to communicate with us. It’s not like in other leagues where you can’t talk to referees. There have been some tough calls like blocking or charging but that’s basketball. We’re just happy to be able to play the game we love in a league and country that are amazing.”

Rain or Shine is fresh from a 76-75 win over NorthPort and has won two of its last three outings. Coach Yeng Guiao isn’t content with a 4-4 record and brought in Pearson to sub Steve Taylor who leaves with averages of 20 points, 16.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists. Pearson, 32, is listed 6-6 and should be eligible for the Governors’ Cup where the import limit is under 6-6 or 6-5 15/16. He played four years with the George Mason University varsity, averaging in double-figure points in three seasons, including 17.1 as a senior in 2011-12. At Rain or Shine, he joins another George Mason alum Gabe Norwood. Pearson suited up in Ukraine, Israel, Belgium, Hungary, France, Mexico, Uruguay and Puerto Rico before landing here.