CEBU, Philippines—Theo Joshua Flores, who used to play for the University of the Visayas (UV) Baby Lancers, knows that there’s a lot to be done still after being picked in the 2023 PBA Draft.
“The job’s not done pa gyud. The main goal sad is to get signed,” said the 25-year-old Flores, who is from Baybay, Leyte.
Flores was picked 66th overall by Phoenix in the 2023 PBA Draft.
“Mao na kailangan gihapon ko mag pa kita and trabaho kung unsa akong matabang sa team na nag pick nako,” added the 6-foot-3 Flores.
(That’s why I need to work hard and show what I can contribute to the team that picked me.)
Among the noted players of the Fuel Masters are Jason Perkins, RJ Jazul, RR Garcia, and Jayvee Mocon. Head coach is Michael Jarin.
Dream come true
Flores admitted he is grateful for getting picked in the PBA Draft.
“You know, ever since nakahibalo ko’g basketball [I’ve] been dreaming of getting into the PBA. Sobra kaayo ko excited, blessed, happy and kulba gihapon gamay,” he said.
(You know, ever since I learned to play basketball, [I’ve] been dreaming of getting into the PBA. I am very excited, blessed, happy and at the same time still nervous.)
READ MORE: 2023 PBA Draft: Cebuano cagers excited, nervous for Draft day
Flores went to elementary school at the Grace Christian School in Baybay Leyte. He then played for UV in the Cesafi during high school before playing for the National University in the UAAP.
Flores was once a member of the Batang Gilas Pilipinas and also played in the Fiba World 3×3. He also played for the Pampanga Royce in the Philippine Super Liga and for Iloilo in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League.
/bmjo