Paul Desiderio an expected first round draftee of the 2018 PBA Rookie Draft. But not as the fourth overall pick.
“Atin ‘to? Amin na ito!”
With those words, NLEX Road Warriors head coach Yeng Guiao declared his selection, Desiderio, Sunday afternoon.
The pick stunned the packed Robinson’s Place Manila Atrium, before the crown broke into applause.
“Gulat na gulat ako.
“Siyempre, ‘di ko nga ine-expect na maunahan ko pa mas higher – sina Javee [Mocon], sina Trevis [Jackson]. So yun, sobrang blessed ako na makuha sa NLEX,” confessed the 21-year-old.
But NLEX have always had their eye on the 5-foot-11 product of UP.
With Kevin Alas still recovering from an ACL injury and Kiefer Ravena still finishing his FIBA-imposed suspension, NLEX have been desperate for a guard who can take over. Which is why the Road Warriors took a gamble three days before the draft, sending Alex Mallari and Dave Marcelo in exchange for the Phoenix Fuel Masters’ fourth overall pick.
“‘Di ako nag-eexpect na kukunin ako nang maaga ni coach Yeng,” added Desiderio.
Even if he is just a rookie, much will be expected of Desiderio. And he vows not to disappoint his fellow Isko Guiao.
“Sobrang saya kasi alam niya naman yung pinaghirapan namin sa UP. Ngayon, kinuha niya ako sa PBA so gagawin ko talaga best ko.”
