Despite producing 17 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists in the Bolts’ 97-85 win over Macau Black Bears in their season opener, the American reinforcement shot a woeful 6-for-24 from the field including a 0-for-6 tally from the three-point line. He also had a game-high five turnovers.
"He didn’t shoot the ball well. He was not at his best," said Meralco head coach Luigi Trillo shortly after the match at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Trillo, though, did not really mind and even praised the 6-foot-6 cager, comparing his game to that of teammate Chris Newsome and Ginebra's Justin Brownlee.
The Gin Kings reinforcement is Kennedy's former college teammate at St. John’s University in the US.
"'Yung maganda kay DJ, I think you pointed out, he’s a little bit like Brownlee in the sense," Trillo said.
"He plays a little bit like New (Newsome) where he makes the right decision all the time. He plays both ends of the floor."
Despite lacking size - Kennedy is tough and strong, but still weighs 210-215 pounds - the team was able to flourish due to his tenacity and the outstanding play of Meralco's other import, Allen Durham, who posted 17 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 assists.
Trillo added Kennedy’s entry with the Bolts is part of the team’s desire to show a better performance this season after going 1-5 last season where their only win is against former Japan B.League champion Ryukyu Golden Kings last December.
"If I may, this year, we are better because we know a little bit of the EASL already. We played Ryukyu (Japan B.League team last season), and DJ coming in early," said Trillo.
Before joining the Bolts, Kennedy played for the basketball club Pinar Karshiyaka (Turkey). He also successfully played in Italy, Israel, Germany, Australia, VTB Russia.
Kennedy will have a chance to atone for his subpar game when Meralco visits Okinawa to take on the Ryukyu Golden Kings on 16 October.
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