NLEX shored up its frontline, signing forward JB Bahio on Friday.
For the 6-foot-5 standout from Lapu-Lapu City, this marks the realization of a lifelong dream.
“Sobrang saya ko po kasi simula bata pa lang, pangarap ko na po ang makapag-PBA. Answered prayer po ito, hindi lang para sa akin kundi para rin sa mga mahal ko sa buhay, kaya punong-puno po ng saya ang puso ko,” Bahio said.
Selected as the 25th overall pick in the 2023 PBA Rookie Draft by Terrafirma, the San Beda product was still committed to play for Pampanga in the MPBL.
The NCAA Season 98 Mythical Team member did not receive a contract offer from the Dyip by the end of the season, making him a free agent.
Determined to keep his pro dreams alive, Bahio joined Nueva Ecija in the MPBL for another campaign.
“Of course, very happy for JB. Before signing with NLEX, lagi namin sinasabi ni Coach Aldin (Ayo), any team makita si JB kahit sa practice pa lang, for sure kukunin,” said agent JR Guevara of EOG Sports. “That’s how hard the kid works. When you meet him, sobrang bait, sobrang down-to-earth. That’s why we at EOG Sports are really happy for him.”
Bahio now joins an NLEX lineup featuring his fellow San Beda product Robert Bolick and Javee Mocon.
The presence of his former college seniors has eased his transition into the Road Warriors.
“Grateful din po ako dahil mga Bedan din dati ang iba sa mga teammates ko—mga kuya ko na sila, kaya kinakausap nila ako para i-guide ako. Malaking tulong po iyon kasi nakapag-adjust ako nang mabilis. Alam ko rin po na mas marami pa akong matututunan sa kanila,” Bahio shared.
“Sobrang blessed po talaga. Ready na po akong ibigay ang lahat para sa NLEX.”
