UV star Manzo applies for PBA Draft
FORMER University of the Visayas ace Jun Manzo is joining the 2021 PBA Rookie Draft, adding even more depth to what is already being considered the most loaded draft pool the league has ever seen.
The crafty playmaker, who last played for the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons after transferring from UV, said the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has long been on his radar especially after his last playing year in the United Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) in 2019. However, his plan was stalled after he had not fulfilled the games requirement in the PBA D-League.
“This is really God’s plan. I had long wanted to join the PBA draft but I still needed to play several more games in the D-League to gain eligibility,” said the pride of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte.
The 5-foot-10 guard said he has long been preparing for this moment and seeks to take full advantage if and when a team decides to pick him.
“I’m ready for this. I’ve been preparing so hard for this. This is an opportunity that I don’t want to miss out on,” said the 23-year old who also has had stints with the Alberei Kings in the D-League and the Zamboanga Family’s Brand Sardines in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League.
Meanwhile, potential top pick Jamie Malonzo has also formalized his entry in the draft. The former La Salle star’s entry into the pool brings the aspirants’ list to 67.
The 6-foot-6 wingman is touted to be in the running for the top pick especially after his sensational one-and-done season in the UAAP Season 82 where he averaged 15.8 points, 9.9 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.2 steals en route to garnering a spot in the Mythical Five.