RJ Abarrientos’ steady rise has not gone unnoticed, and with that attention comes a new kind of challenge. As his impact on the court continues to grow, San Miguel Beer (SMB) has started treating the young guard as a priority assignment—something players around the league often describe as becoming an “SMB target.” For Johnny Abarrientos, a former star who knows exactly what that pressure feels like, the moment calls for guidance rather than concern.

Johnny, widely respected for his career and basketball IQ, believes this stage is a natural part of RJ’s development. Being singled out by a powerhouse team like SMB, he said, is not a warning sign but proof that opponents are taking the young guard seriously.

“When strong teams start planning for you, that’s respect,” Johnny said. “It means they see you as a threat.”

RJ’s performances this season have backed that up. His quickness, confidence with the ball, and willingness to take responsibility have made him a central figure for his team. But those same qualities have also placed him under a brighter spotlight. Against SMB, that often translates to tighter defense, fewer easy touches, and constant physical pressure designed to disrupt rhythm.

According to Johnny, the most important adjustment for RJ will be mental rather than physical. He explained that elite teams like SMB thrive on forcing opponents into rushed decisions and emotional reactions.

“They want you uncomfortable,” Johnny said. “If you try to fight that by doing too much, you end up helping them. The challenge is learning how to stay calm when everything feels chaotic.”

There have been moments when RJ has handled that challenge well, showing poise by setting up teammates and picking his spots. There have also been stretches where the added pressure led to hurried passes or tough shots. Johnny said those ups and downs are part of the learning curve, especially for young guards facing experienced defenders.

“That’s how you learn,” he said. “Every mistake teaches you something. The key is not repeating the same one.”

One of the strongest points Johnny emphasized was the value of trust. When defenses load up on a single player, it often creates opportunities for others. Recognizing those moments and making the correct play can shift the flow of a game.

“You don’t win alone,” Johnny said. “If they’re focused on stopping you, that means someone else has room to work. You just have to be willing to give up the ball.”

Being targeted by SMB also brings a physical and emotional test. The team is known for sustained pressure, wearing down opponents over the course of a full game. Johnny said endurance, focus, and emotional control become critical in those situations.

“It’s not just about one quarter,” he explained. “They test you from the opening tip until the final buzzer. You have to stay locked in the whole time.”

How RJ handles these matchups could influence his standing across the league. Players who consistently remain effective against top-tier teams often earn a different level of respect. Johnny believes these moments can shape how defenders approach RJ in the future.

“If you show you can handle that kind of attention, teams adjust,” he said. “That’s when you know you’ve taken a step forward.”

RJ has made it clear he welcomes the challenge. He has spoken openly about viewing the added defensive focus as motivation rather than pressure. Learning from veterans, he said, has helped him understand that adversity is part of growth.

“I’m still learning every game,” RJ said recently. “If teams are zeroing in on me, that just means I need to be smarter and more disciplined.”

For Johnny, watching RJ go through this phase brings a sense of familiarity. While the game continues to evolve, the lessons remain unchanged.

“Skill opens doors,” Johnny said. “But consistency, humility, and the right mindset decide how far you go.”

As the season moves forward, RJ’s response to being an “SMB target” will be closely watched. With guidance from someone who has experienced the same pressure, the young guard now has an opportunity to turn intense attention into meaningful progress—and prove that he belongs among the league’s emerging leaders.