Many were surprised when Hesed Gabo was not part of Nueva Ecija’s signing day last week.
After all, the 5-foot-9 floor general has been a staple in Jeron Cabiltes’ teams over the past four years.
But the guard out of Mapua University is finally achieving his dream of playing in the big league, signing a one-year deal with PBA team NLEX over the weekend.
The development was first reported by the Daily Tribune and confirmed to Tiebreaker Times by Road Warriors head coach Frankie Lim and Rice Vanguards head coach Cabiltes.
“I’m very happy. Hesed is a vital part in our run that saw us win six championships in numerous leagues,” expressed Cabiltes. “I want my players to really excel and reach their dreams.
“Now, the question I pose to my players is, ‘Who is next?'”
And Gabo is one of the most decorated guards not in the PBA.
Back in 2019, Gabo was crowned the MVP of the PBA D-League Foundation Cup after steering BRT Sumisip-St. Clare to the top.
Though going undrafted in the 2019 Rookie Draft, Gabo continued to persevere.
He won multiple championships in the MPBL, Filbasket, and VisMin Super Cup.
Gabo was also the MVP in the Mindanao Leg of the 2021 VisMin Super Cup.
Last season, he averaged 7.1 points, 5.8 assists, and 2.5 rebounds for Nueva Ecija.
And at the age of 28, he has now achieved his dream.
Also signed by the Road Warriors is Clint Doliguez.
Doliguez spent the last year in PBA 3×3, playing for Northport and Pioneer.
