Former King Bulldog Gelo Alolino sat nervously on the sidelines during the proper of the 2016 PBA Rookie Draft. But it did not take long for him to realize where his journey would take him, as he was drafted as the second overall pick by the Phoenix Fuel Masters.
“Wala akong idea. Pero nag-work out ako sa kanila pero sabi nila ‘we don’t know.’ Talagang ako clueless ako,” the 22-year-old shared.
“Naka-upo ako talagang kabado. Yung tuhod ko parang lumulutang. Lahat ng pinaghirapan at experience, mga ups and down ayun nandito na.”
Alolino quickly popped up of his chair once his name was called. Years of hard work have come into fruition for the one-time UAAP gold medalist. Moreover, he quickly realized that he has to get back to the gym to work on his game as there is pressure that comes with being the second overall pick.
“Dream come true na nasa PBA na ko. I’m really excited to work more. Hindi ako mag-rerelax,” said Alolino, who had played for the UP/QRS-Jam Liner and the Tanduay Rhum Masters in the D-League.
Besides being the second overall pick, the former Nationalian was also granted another gift that only a few receive. Joining him in the Fuel Masters are two former teammates back in college: Jeff Javillonar and Pao Javelona. The Las Piñas resident is hoping that they could grow together in the franchise and have long careers in the pros.
“Coincidence. Hindi ko ine-expect yun pero happy ako na at least nandito na kami. Nakasama ko sila ng maraming beses na sa UAAP. Pero pareparehas kaming bago dito kaya as much as possible hahanapin pa namin yung mabibigay namin sa team,” he said.
“May familiarity na kami sa isa’t isa. Hindi ko in-expect yun at plus yun na magkakasama kami. Hopefully, sama sama din kami na mag-sign ng contract.”
