Joshua Munzon believes that the experience he has gained over the past years has made him equipped to become a ‘positive influence’ for Terrafirma.
Expectations have been high for the top pick of the recent PBA Rookie Draft. Still, it doesn’t faze the 26-year-old — mainly thanks to the maturity he has gained since turning pro about five years ago.
“You know, with all the teams that I’ve been on and all the experience I gained, I definitely feel that I’m ready to step in and be a positive influence,” he told The Game on One PH the night after the draft proceedings.
Shortly after graduating from the California State University in Los Angeles back in 2016, the Fil-Am gunner began his pro journey with the Saigon Heat in the ASEAN Basketball League, serving as its Heritage Import.
He remained with the regional pro league until 2018, which also saw him play for Westports Malaysia. He then decided to go to his motherland and be part of the pioneering Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3×3 early in 2019.
It was with Chooks 3×3 that his star shone even brighter. Munzon emerged as the country’s top 3×3 player, going up against some of the world’s best in various FIBA 3×3 tournaments, from Challenger tilts to World Tours.
Along with those stints, he has also represented the country through iECO in the East Asia Super League’s The Terrific 12 in Macau back in 2018; and made a mark with AMA in the PBA D-League as well.
Now he gets to bring all the knowledge from his journey to the Dyip, who have just let go of star guard CJ Perez by trading him to San Miguel for three players and the eighth overall pick of the last draft.
“Whether it’s being a leader or just being what the team needs, I see myself stepping in there and contributing,” Munzon said.
And in terms of contributing, the cager from Long Beach vowed to give it his all whenever he sets foot on the hardwood.
“Every time I step on the court against any team, I’m gonna go out there and give everything I have,” he said.
“I’m just excited to get out there and compete.”
