Mike Digregorio has been instrumental to the Blackwater Elite’s rare two-game win streak, averaging 23 points to help his squad pick up important victories in the Oppo PBA Governors’ Cup.
He said that adopting his idol Kobe Bryant’s “Mamba Mentality” has been a big reason behind his improved play.
“We’re coming out with a chip on our shoulders. I’ve always believe in myself. I’ve talked to guys before that I am a big, big Kobe Bryant fan. Mamba Mentality. This game is mental. You keep telling yourself over and over again. You start to believe it,” Digregorio told InterAksyon.
From being a virtually unknown when he entered the league two years ago, Digregorio has now built a reputation as a solid shooter and playmaker. On Friday, he scored 18 points spiked by four triples to help the Elite take down NLEX, 107-106.
He said that joining Blackwater allowed him to flourish and raise his game to a whole new level.
“Since I’ve been to Blackwater, my play has skyrocketed. I’m grateful for Blackwater for giving me this opportunity. I tried to take advantage of it. I’m playing to prove to everybody what I can do. I don’t think the guy in front of me is any better than me,” he said.
“When you go out there, you have to play with a chip on your shoulder. You’ve got to be aggressive. You work hard to show your talent. I work hard every single day. When the game comes, I tried to show what I can do.”