Tyler Bey loves to come back

In a bittersweet conclusion to his first attempt at a PBA championship, Tyler Bey found himself on the losing end as San Miguel orchestrated a stunning comeback to snatch Game 6 of the Commissioner’s Cup finals, 104-102. 

Despite the heartbreak, the Magnolia import, a former NBA player, expressed his eagerness to have another crack at the championship, vowing to return if the call comes.

Playing nearly the entire game with close to 46 minutes on the court, Bey displayed his all-around skills, contributing 18 points, eight rebounds, four assists, and three blocks in the closeout match at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. 

While the defeat was a tough pill to swallow, the 26-year-old athlete remained optimistic about the future.

Bey said he would love to come back, leaving no room for uncertainty regarding his commitment to the Magnolia franchise.

Despite falling short in the championship bid, his affection for the Philippines and the Hotshots was evident. Expressing gratitude for the warm reception during his five-month stint, Bey acknowledged the bond formed with his teammates, referring to them as family. 

“I love the Philippines, I love Magnolia,” he said in a PBA report,  reflecting on the deep connections forged during his time with the proud franchise.

Reflecting on the game’s turning point, Bey, like the rest of the Hotshots, acknowledged the meltdown in the final six minutes that ultimately led to their downfall. 

Recognizing areas for improvement, he pointed to execution and ball control as crucial factors that could have shifted the outcome.

He wished they could do everything better, executing plays and minimizing turnovers, highlighting the fine margins that often decide the fate of closely contested matchups.

Despite the setback, Bey remained hopeful about the prospect of a return, displaying resilience and determination. 

As a second-round pick of the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2020 draft, Bey’s willingness to go to war again with the Hotshots reflects not just his competitive spirit but also his genuine affection for the team and the country that embraced him during his PBA journey.