Just as he did with the Lyceum Pirates in the NCAA, CJ Perez is willing to lead the turnaround for struggling franchise Columbian Dyip.
Sunday afternoon, Perez, a 25-year-old swingman out of Bautista, Pangasinan, was given the distinct honor of being the top overall pick in the 2018 PBA Draft. And he embraces the pressure that comes with it.
“Sobrang saya and excited na ako yung unang pick ng Columbian. Sana maganda ang mapakita ko sa PBA,” he expressed.
Columbian have struggled to break out of the cellar over the last four years. They have traded away picks and potential stars over the past few years, which has contributed to their plight.
Looking to stay for the long haul, Perez looks to lead Columbian for the years to come.
“Siyempre yung effort at kung kailangan nila ng scorer, ready naman ako. Bibigay ko lahat ng best ko para sa kanila,” he said.
But he knows that he can’t do it alone. Which is why Perez is looking to rally the Dyip as they try to break out of their slump.
“Siyempre hindi ko naman kaya na ako lang,” Perez added.
“Sana talaga mag-iba yung ano ng Columbian, sana magpanalo na, and siyempre ‘di naman magagawa yun kung walang effort.”
