Jerrick Balanza and Bonbon Batiller accomplished their mission of leading Letran to a championship in their final year.
Promise fulfilled.
And so moments after the game, both stalwarts were at peace, immediately throwing their name into the 2019 PBA Rookie Draft.
For them, it was time to serve their families after serving the Colegio for so many years.
“Kailangan na namin,” said 6-foot guard Batiller, who is a native of General Santos City.
“Finished business na eh,” added 6-foot-2 swingman Balanza, a proud son of Tondo.
“Para sa family namin, mag-apply na kami.”
Letran head coach Bonnie Tan, who is also the team manager of PBA club NorthPort, knows that the two will be of great benefit to any team that drafts them. After all, they have proven themselves as big-time players during their stellar collegiate careers.
“I think they’re ready for the next level ng basketball careers sa performance na binigay nila this season. Individual awards will follow,” said Tan.
“Importante, winner ka, part ka ng winning team.”
However, Tan is not optimistic that Northport can draft them.
Based on projections, the Batang Pier will be in the middle of the pack, drafting either fifth or sixth in all rounds. He knows that Balanza and Batiller will go higher than five in the first two rounds.
“Sana umabot sa amin.
“‘Yung pagiging winner ng outgoing players, maraming coaches ang humahanap na coaches na ganoon sa PBA. Individual stats nandoon, pero ‘yung credential na winner ang isang player, malaking plus para sa draft,” noted Tan.
