Raphael Banal (2) runs the floor during the 2016 PBA Draft Combine. Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
As the No. 1 pick in the regular draft, Raphael Banal is not bothered at all by the pressure he’s getting from just about every front.
“It’s nothing really, I just really feel grateful to get a chance to get picked by Blackwater and continue my pro career,” said the 24-year-old, Banal who was accompanied by father and former pro Joel.
“I so look forward to playing with Mac Belo and other guys,” added Banal, referring to the Gilas Cadet forward and former Far Eastern University star who was among the “special draftess” selected by the 12 teams in their alphabetical order.
Former National U guard Gelo Alolino came in second after being selected by Phoenix, Barangay Ginebra picked forward Raymon Jamito as No. 3 while Mahindra and Star went for big men Joseph Eriobu and Chris Javier, respectively.
The PBA drafting style was a first in league history—done to underscore the league’s support for the Gilas program of the Samahang Basketbol sa Pilipinas.
“If you look at it really, [the No. 1 overall pick] was the Gilas 12,” said PBA commissioner Chito Narvasa.
During the special draft last week, Phoenix also got Fil-American Matthew Wright while Ginebra, the Governors’ Cup champion, snagged talented former Santo Tomas gunner Kevin Ferrer
“My job since Day 1 is to keep working hard. I guess that’s how my approach is gonna be,” said the 6-foot-2
Banal, who had a brief stint with Racal in the PBA D-League.
Joel stood up from the stands after the name of his son, nicknamed Raffy, was called by Narvasa. He hugged PBA legend and NLEX assistant coach Jojo Lastimosa, his son’s godfather.
The elder Banal said Blackwater coach Leo Isaac was one year his junior in the Mapua Cardinals team.
“Raffy is in good hands with Leo (Isaac),” said Joel.