Papot Paredes’ bachelors party started Friday evening at the SM Mall of Asia Arena
Former De La Salle University Green Archer Papot Paredes is starting to blossom under Globalport Batang Pier coach Franz Pumaren.
After totaling just 5 minutes and 52 seconds in Globalport’s first six games, the 6-foot-5 big man has logged in 16 minutes each in their last two games.
Friday evening — a day after his 25th birthday and a week before his wedding — Paredes played his best game as a pro, scoring 13 points on 6-of-7 shooting from the field and grabbed six rebounds in a 110-96 win over NLEX.
It was visible that he was playing with an added step during that game, saying that he had been inspired all game long because he was about to get married to fiance Chiara Lanuza. If that was not enough motivation, his team is now in the hunt for a top two seed in the post-season of the Philippine Cup.
“Medyo inspired. On Saturday, I’m getting married eh,” the Bukidnon native shared.
“We really needed this game kasi sabi ni coach, we have a big chance to be at the top. We’re just doing what we have to do.
“There’s a chance to get that top two and we want to be there to be easier for us. When you’re down, it’s going to be harder. We want to get that twice-to-beat advantage,” he added.
However, Paredes is set to miss Globalport’s pivotal showdown against the San Miguel Beermen on Saturday, January 21 in Cebu City due to his wedding — which had already been planned a year ago.
“Papot Paredes played well today but we are going to miss him against San Miguel because he is getting married on Saturday,” Pumaren shared.
“One year ago na set. Di ko alam na San Miguel. I got shocked na sakto, sa Cebu pa,” Paredes admitted.
But Pumaren, a godfather to the wedding, understands that his player cannot postpone his big day. Paredes though vows to report back to the team as soon as possible.
“Wala munang honeymoon. I’ll be back agad ng practice ng Monday kaagad,” Paredes said.
“After the conference na ang honeymoon and she understands.”
And the best gift Paredes will receive from his teammates, who will miss his wedding, is a win against the league-leading San Miguel Beermen.
