Certified MVP Scottie vows to keep polishing his game to help Ginebra

Scottie Thompson has built a basketball resume at just 29 years old.

The tireless playmaker has developed into a national team fixture, seven-time PBA champion, two-time Conference Player of the Year and Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) and, most importantly, season MVP.

Thompson also featured in the club’s two outstanding titles recently. He was an integral part of the crowd’s beloved run to the 2020 Philippine Cup crown and was key in the Gin Kings’ Commissioner’s Cup championship.

“I hit a lot of special milestones. I feel like I’m special!” he told the Inquirer in Filipino with a chuckle. “It feels good. Winning a championship always feels special.”

“You know when you win one, there’s nothing else to think about but helping your team win more. It’s addictive,” he said.

Thompson knew that there was a certain lifestyle that was required to keep the “addiction” going. And they are willing to do whatever it takes to be able to do something.

“I know I have a lot more to work on my game. I’m still far from [my best]. I need to improve, especially on offense,” he said.

Thompson’s track to optimal form continued on February 5, when Ginebra began its defense of the Governor’s Cup title.

Their first hurdle, interestingly, is Rain or Shine, coached by Yeng Guiao who once played for Gilas, a native of Digos City.

“I’m not surprised [with how he is now]. Even when he was with me at Gilas, I knew that at some point he would improve his game and become better,” said a fiery Guiao in a separate interview with the Inquirer. “I’m not surprised that he’s the MVP now.”

“I told him if he could work on the outside shot, he could get a huge asset,” Guiao recalled. “He’s improved a lot on that.”

There is no better time to illustrate Thompson’s shooting touch better than during the Ginebra playoffs in the All-Filipino show 2020. Using his refined shooting, buoyed the Gin Kings over Meralco in the decider of the Final Four, and then again against TNT in the Final.

“I remember telling him… if he can finish the game with three-point shooting, he will be difficult to defend,” Guiao said while shaking his head. “I’m not sure I’ll blame myself because it’s so hard to defend.” Guiao feels that Thompson still has a little to polish.

“I think from here – of course, you don’t stop improving your skills. I think now it’s just about making decisions and maturity. That’s where it grows.”

Thompson said he is always ready to tweak his game.

“I guess if there’s only one thing that won’t change, it’s to give it your best,” he said. INQ

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