Louie Sangalang relishes matchup vs Ian despite one-sided result

Magnolia’s Ian Sangalang (right) gets a hard foul from Terrafirma’s Louie Sangalang during the PBA Philippine Cup. —AUGUST DELA CRUZ

MANILA, Philippines—Terrafirma rookie Louie Sangalang knew he would have a long night matched up against his namesake Ian Sangalang who also happens to be one of the best big men in the PBA today.

Louie was determined to hold his own but could only do so much trying to contain Magnolia’s versatile veteran on Friday.

“I tried my best not to be dominated by kuya Ian because that would be embarrassing,” said Louie, who has no relation to Ian.

“Of course, I really challenged myself but for me, I had a bad game tonight. They had a great game plan against me and I couldn’t adjust.”

Louie, who has been on a tear lately for the Dyip, was neutralized by the Hotshots’ stifling defense in the paint.

Coming off a 19-point effort in Terrafirma’s win over NorthPort last April 24, the Letran product was held to just four points and two rebounds.

To make matters worse for Louie, Ian had a tremendous game for Magnolia, posting 23 points and eight rebounds as the Hotshots beat the Dyip, 108-100, to clinch a spot in the playoffs.

“You really have to be mindful and smart when you’re playing against a veteran.”

“I really learn a lot from him. With his moves, you’ll think you can block his shot but then he’ll get you on a fake. It’s crazy because I do that too, I do fake a lot but he still got me.”