To have Alapag as mentor a ‘dream come true’ for Amer
Baser Amer picked by Meralco. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Baser Amer considers the 2015 Gatorade PBA Rookie Draft as probably one of the best days of his basketball career.
Picked by Meralco at seventh, the San Beda guard is elated that he would be under the tutelage of Jimmy Alapag in the Bolts fort.
“Dream come true talaga,” said Amer. “Bata pa lang ako, pinapanood ko na sya. Tapos in the future, magiging kasama ko pala sya. Sobrang saya ko lang talaga.”
(When I was still a kid, I was already watching him. Then in the future, I didn’t really expect to be playing alongside with him. I’m really happy.)
The Davao native will also be having the luxury of being familiar with a lot of coaches in the squad.
Amer is currently playing for Bolts deputy Jamike Jarin with the Red Lions in the NCAA, and has also seen action under coaches Ronnie Magsanoc and Xavier Nunag with Hapee in the D-League.
Though he has been given this tremendous opportunity, he knows that a tougher grind still lies ahead.
“Maga-adjust din ako kasi iba yung sa PBA. More physical and mental yung labanan dun,” said Amer. “Andun na yung pressure at excitement. Thankful lang ako kila coach Norman (Black) kasi yun ang importante sa player eh, yung tiwala.”
(I’m still going to adjust in the PBA. It’s more physical and mental there. The pressure and excitement is already there. I’m just thankful to coach Norman Black because he has given me one of the most important things for a player, the coach’s trust.)
Subscribe to INQUIRER PLUS to get access to The Philippine Daily Inquirer & other 70+ titles, share up to 5 gadgets, listen to the news, download as early as 4am & share articles on social media. Call 896 6000.
