Confidence has become one of Rhenz Abando's biggest strengths entering the new season, and the Filipino swingman believes the trust he's receiving from the coaching staff is bringing the best out of his game.

Abando helped Anyang Jungkwanjang cruise to a 109-50 victory over Dongguk University in a offseason scrimmage on Wednesday, showing flashes of the all-around athleticism that has made him one of the team's most versatile perimeter players.

The 28-year-old made an impact on both ends of the floor, finishing through traffic with a reverse layup, creating scoring opportunities for teammates with timely passes and adding rebounds, a block and several transition baskets. One highlight came in the second half when he delivered a clever hook pass that led to Park Jeong-woong's one-handed dunk.

"I'm not at 100 percent yet," Abando said after the game. "I still think I can get better. More than anything, Head coach has given me a lot of confidence. Whenever I hesitate or pass up an open shot, he always tells me to shoot. That trust means a lot because confidence is such a big part of improving as a player."

Head coach Yoo Do Hoon isn't the only member of this team helping build that confidence.

Assistant coach Yang Hee-jong, who played alongside Abando during the 2022-2023 championship season, has continued to mentor the Filipino guard-forward throughout the offseason.

"I'm really thankful to Coach Yang," Abando said. "Ever since I was a rookie, he's always tried to give me confidence. Sometimes he's tough on me, but I know it's because he wants me to become a better player. He's helped me believe in myself."

Abando also spoke highly of the Red Boosters' new import duo, Rashawn Thomas and John Mooney, saying their style of play has created more opportunities for him offensively.

"They're not isolation players," Abando said. "They set great screens and make the game easier for everyone else. Because of that, I've been getting a lot more wide-open looks, and it's much easier to play my game."

One area Abando continues to focus on is his perimeter shooting after converting just 27.8 percent of his 3-point attempts last season. If he can combine more consistent outside shooting with the explosiveness that already defines his game, team offense could become significantly more dangerous.

With the regular season approaching, Abando remains focused on consistency rather than individual numbers.

"I'm going to compete as hard as I can every game," he said. "It's a long season, so there will always be ups and downs. But I'll keep giving my best. Our fans always come out and support us, and that gives me even more motivation to play hard."
 

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