Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Debuts usually leave a lasting impression on anyone especially if it’s the culmination of a lifelong dream.
Alaska rookie Jesper Ayaay experienced that one on Sunday at Mall of Asia Arena when he played his first PBA game after spending his collegiate days with Lyceum.
Ayaay, however, was different since he said that his much-awaited debut was just another game for him.
“It was a normal feeling and I felt that I was just playing in an outside league,” joked Ayaay after the Aces’ 85-72 loss to Rain or Shine. “I just don’t put any pressure on myself and I just did the best I can when I was called off the bench.”
“I just focused on what I can do especially on defense.”
Ayaay was the ninth overall pick of the 2018 PBA Rookie Draft in a stunning selection since he was a role player with the Pirates for most of his stay in the NCAA and it was this humble upbringing at Lyceum that ultimately molded his mindset.
The rookie wingman said he’s not putting much focus on his offensive game, let alone being the focal point of the system, but he would rather be that one guy that works hard in practice and help his teammates get better.
“I’m a rookie so I’m here to work hard and challenge my teammates in practice,” said Ayaay, who had six points and two rebounds in his first professional game.
“I never really look at the offensive numbers I put up and I just look at what I can do on defense and on what I can do to help my team.”