Peter June Simon has gladly accepted the role playing chief backup to top gunner James Yap.

But when opportunity arises, expect the player called as Super Sub to step up.

The B-Meg Derby Ace guard came up with two splendid games, highlighted by a personal best, in the PBA Philippine Cup and bag the Accel-PBA Press Corps’ Player of the Week honors for the period Nov. 8 to 14.

Although he has a handful of collegiate and commercial league MVP awards to boast of, Simon has been content to act as chief reliever to Yap. Embracing that role has borne fruits.

Simon took center stage in Derby Ace’s back-to-back wins for the week after averaging an astounding 29 points, enough to make him the unanimous choice for the scribes’ citation.

Even coach Jorge Gallent admits the 30-year-old Makilala, Cotabato native is a key factor in the Llamados' three-game winning streak.

“He’s been consistent with the way he’s playing. He’s improved tremendously on offense and defense," noted Gallent. “He knows he’s a big factor in the team and he’s been delivering very well."

Simon showcased his scoring prowess, scattering a career-high 42 points anchored on 11-for-11 2-point shooting in a 102-97 win over Air21 last Wednesday.

The output was 10 more than his personal best and the most by any local since Rain or Shine's Sol Mercado poured in 45 last June 11.

Simon followed up that eye-popping performance with 16 points, on 8-for-14 field goal shooting, in an 85-73 win over Powerade.

Those victories jacked Derby Ace’s win-loss record to 4-5, lifting the defending champion out of the cellar and into contention for a playoff spot.

Rey Joble, GMA News