Brian Enriquez was supposed to go one-and-done for University of the East.
But because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and with the University Athletic Association of the Philippines most likely not extending age eligibility for incoming master’s student-athletes, the 6-foot-3 guard out of Division II school William Woods University has decided to try his luck in the PBA Draft instead.
“Originally the plan was to play for Coach Jack [Santiago] and Coach Jamike [Jarin] at the University of the East. But with the cancelation of the season, my family and I thought it was best to move forward and enter my name in the PBA draft,” the Filipino-American told Tiebreaker Times.
“It definitely hurt. I was really looking forward to putting on that Red Warrior jersey. The energy in the arena during those UAAP games would have been such an amazing experience. But everything happens for a reason, I’m really excited for this next step in the PBA.”
Enriquez can play three positions with ease.
In his senior year, he averaged 4.8 points and 2.4 rebounds per game.
Enriquez will enter the March 14 draft as a relative unknown. But he hopes that he can have one shot to prove himself.
“By controlling what I can control and putting in the necessary work, day in and day out is how I plan to prove myself in this league.
“My dad Buck always told me that hard work is undefeated. That’s the mentality I’m coming in with,” he said.
