Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Moala Tautuaa is projected to be the top overall pick in the upcoming Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Draft, but he knows there’s much work cut out for him.
And that is why he’s relishing the chance to be part of the Gilas Pilipinas training pool as he prepares for the big league.
The Rookie Draft is on August 23.
“It feels good. I’m excited to be here. It’s a good learning experience,” said the Fil-Tongan cager after his first training with the national team on Thursday (August 13) at the Meralco Gym.
“This is just training for me. It’s a good way to get myself ready for the draft and the draft combine.”
Tautuaa doesn’t mind serving as a back-up to injured naturalized Filipino Andray Blatche. He said that playing alongside the PBA’s finest players will in fact help him in his transition from the Developmental League to the pros.
“I understand that right now I’m playing as back-up and Plan B for the team. I’m not looking at it as a negative thing. It’s a positive thing for me,” said Tautuaa, who suited up for the Cebuana Lhuillier Gems in the D-League.
So far, Tautuaa has made a good account of himself.
“It’s fantastic seeing him there and he really did a good job tonight,” said new Gilas coach Tab Baldwin.
“Our training tonight was designed to be a review to help him get up to speed, and he learns really quickly.”
He added: “Again, it’s an example of another kid making a sacrifice he doesn’t have to make so I’m proud of him. I look forward to developing a relationship with him and coaching him much more.”
