Gilas first-timer, 3-point king Maliksi grateful for blessings

PBA IMAGES

LUCENA — Never in Allein Maliksi’s wildest dreams that he thought the blessings will come in bunches.

After winning his first Three-Point Shootout title in his first try in the 2017 PBA All-Star Week on Friday, Maliksi was also named in coach Chot Reyes’ final roster for the upcoming 2017 SEABA Championship in May.

“That’s what they’re saying about God’s perfect time. The opportunities will eventually come. You just have to be ready when that time comes,” he said.

Not bad for someone who was tapped to join the national pool just last month to replace the injured Paul Lee.

“I’m thankful to God for opportunities like this in this point of my career, but I know I needed to turn it up to make it to the final 12. I didn’t expect to be part of the lineup, so I just worked hard every practice to earn it,” he said. “Even before, I wanted to play for the national team because who wouldn’t? It’s an honor to serve our country. It’s a huge fulfillment for my career. I’m thankful and blessed that everything is matching up.”

Now, Maliksi is regarded as one of Gilas’ new designated gunners together with guards Terrence Romeo, forward Troy Rosario, and rookies Matthew Wright and Roger Pogoy.

However, the former UST Growling Tiger knows that the hardwork doesn’t stop here as he hopes to make the country proud in his first foray with the national team.

“I just need to be ready every time the opportunity comes. When the time comes that I need to make shots, I have to make it. I know I have to ready myself and stay focused,” he said.