Whoppers to make Aguilar top pick, if he joins PBA draft

MANILA, Philippines – Japeth Aguilar would probably end up in a Burger King uniform if ever he decides to join the PBA Annual Rookie Draft next month. “We will definitely pick him," said Burger King team manager and incoming PBA chairman Lito Alvarez. “It’s hard to pass up somebody like Japeth. He has the size and skills and he will certainly make our team a contender." “He (Aguilar) will also become the franchise player in the future," added Alvarez. Aguilar, a second generation player, finally practiced with the Yeng Guiao-coached Powerade-Team Pilipinas at The Arena in San Juan City last Monday. Although his entry in the draft hasn’t been formalized as he has yet to sign the entry form for rookies, the 6-foot-9 forward will surely become an instant attraction in the pro league. Awesome is one word that best describes Aguilar, according to Guiao. “He’s the future of Philippine basketball." Among those who watched Aguilar in his first practice session were PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios, RP team manager JB Baylon and Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) spokesman Joey Romasanta. “Aguilar is the most promising draft pick potential, probably ever since when the draft started. I understand he is considering being part of the draft and I personally hope he will be. The PBA will receive tremendous boost to see Japeth playing alongside Gabe Norwood, Kelly Williams, Solomon Mercado Arwind Santos and other young and exciting players," said Baylon. Guiao said he was very pleased that Aguilar joined the Powerade RP team. “He’s got great basketball IQ because he grasped our plays very quickly." “He will be a perfect match up against our rivals in FIBA Asia. He is more athletic and he’s grown about two inches. He has more movements now and has better footwork. And for a tall player, he has good shooting touch from the perimeter," said Guiao, who added he saw him play for Ateneo three years ago. Guiao said the presence of the 22-year-old Aguilar will definitely help the Nationals in our coming two international tournaments. “We exerted effort in securing his services because we knew he can help us in many ways. Hopefully, he will be able to play in the professional league and blossom in the PBA. He is going to be the next dominant big man in the league without a doubt." Guiao was confident that Aguilar would complement the nationals’ running game. – GMANews.TV