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Justine Baltazar, tipped as the primary general choose within the PBA Draft after stints within the Japan B. League and the MPBL, thinks he’ll have little downside adjusting to the premier native professional league
MANILA, Philippines – Justine Baltazar feels he’s prepared for the PBA practically two years after backing out from the Rookie Draft.
Tipped to be picked No. 1 general, Baltazar stated his stints within the Japan B. League and the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) ready him properly for the challenges the PBA poses.
“I gained confidence from the MPBL, so now, I’m getting my groove again,” stated Baltazar in Filipino as he participated within the Draft Mix on Wednesday, July 10. “I actually supposed to hitch the draft this 12 months. I’m prepared for the PBA.”
As soon as thought of a Gilas Pilipinas cornerstone owing to his dimension and promising upside, the 6-foot-8 massive man utilized for the draft in 2022 after a stellar UAAP run with La Salle that noticed him earn three Legendary Group honors.
However a change of coronary heart prompted Baltazar to withdraw his utility as he as a substitute took his act to the B. League, the place he signed with the Hiroshima Dragonflies.
Though his B. League profession proved short-lived, Baltazar stated going up in opposition to opponents with NBA pedigree made him a greater participant.
“The caliber of gamers I confronted abroad isn’t any joke. They’re former NBA gamers. I’ll deliver that have to the PBA,” he stated.
After bungling a shot to play within the Korean Basketball League, Baltazar determined to go well with up for his house crew Pampanga within the MPBL, guiding the Big Lanters to the title and profitable the season MVP and Finals MVP plums.
His MVP season within the MPBL noticed him common 17.1 factors, 16.9 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1.1 blocks in 36 video games.
“The MPBL is an enormous assist as a result of I received my confidence there. Once I’m already within the PBA, I’d have little downside adjusting,” Baltazar stated.
Baltazar is anticipated to land at Converge, with the FiberXers proudly owning the highest choose after a dismal marketing campaign final season that noticed them end the 2 conferences on the backside and compile a 3-19 document.
Converge, although, may need to attend earlier than it will get it palms on Baltazar, who’s contemplating whether or not or not he’ll keep within the MPBL as he stays beneath contract with Pampanga.
“We’ll see if I’ll end my MPBL stint or I’ll instantly play within the PBA,” he stated.
Draft day is on Sunday, July 14, at Glorietta in Makati Metropolis. – Rappler.com
