The PBA Rookie Draft was greater than only a profession milestone for JM Bravo and King Gurtiza as the previous NCAA stars devoted their picks to their departed family members.
Former Emilio Aguinaldo Faculty standout King Gurtiza went second within the fifth spherical to Phoenix, whereas Lyceum of the Philippines product JM Bravo was taken first within the sixth spherical by Terrafirma as each gamers took step one of their PBA desires.
However the draft was larger than basketball for the 2.
Gurtiza supplied it to his late mom, who died a month in the past on the identical day of his faculty commencement.
“From shedding my Mama on the day of my commencement a month in the past… to being known as and drafted on the PBA,” Gurtiza mentioned in a submit.
“I do know you’re tremendous proud up there, Ma. Para sayo ‘to palagi.”
Bravo, in the meantime, honored the reminiscence of his father, who handed away earlier this 12 months, simply weeks after he wrapped up what turned out to be his remaining 12 months with LPU in Season 100.
“PAPA yung anak mo na draft sa PBA! Natupad na yung isang pangarap ko na pinangako ko sayo,” Bravo mentioned.
[PAPA your son was drafted in the PBA! One of the dreams that I promised you has come true.]
Bravo additionally expressed his gratitude to the Dyip for taking an opportunity on him regardless of a rocky NCAA marketing campaign final 12 months, the place he well being and damage points.
Bravo was initially ruled out of the season after sustaining a backbone damage final September, however made a shock return the next month to bolster the Pirates. Simply days after his comeback, nonetheless, he was stretchered off the court after collapsing mid-game.
Fortuitously, no severe damage was discovered, permitting Bravo to complete the season as LPU finally bowed to Mapua College within the Closing 4.
—JMB, GMA Built-in Information
