Proud Tondo boy RK Ilagan determined to reach PBA dream

Former San Sebastian Stag RK Ilagan. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — RK Ilagan knows he won’t be alone in his journey to make the PBA.

Proud of his roots, Ilagan said he is honored to represent his hometown heading into the PBA Rookie Draft.

“Malaking karangalan sa akin na dala ko ang pangalan ng lugar namin at masarap sa feeling kasi alam ko na naka-suporta silang lahat sa akin,” said Ilagan, who hails from Gagalangin, Tondo Manila.

(It’s a huge honor for me to represent my hometown and it feels good because I know I have everyone’s support here.)

“Lahat ng tiga-dito, excited na sa draft. Kahit yung mga di masyado nanonood, manonood daw sila para suportahan ako.”

(Everyone here is excited for the draft even those who don’t really watch the games said they’re going to watch and support me.)

Listed at 5-foot-7, Ilagan obviously doesn’t have the size working to his advantage, but he has the scoring ability to make up for it.

Ilagan made a name for himself at San Sebastian as one of the offensive players in the NCAA Season 95 where he posted nearly 16 points a game on 32 percent shooting from the three-point area. He also averaged four rebounds and four assists per game.

He also boosted his stock in the PBA D-League.

Ilagan added he’s also gotten advice from another pride of Tondo in Magnolia star Paul Lee.

“Sabi ni kuya Paul sa akin, dapat alagaan yung katawan ko at wag magpabaya kasi yun ang puhunan namin. Sipag lang talaga para maabot yung pangarap.”

(Paul told me that I need to take care of my body because it’s our investment. Just work hard to reach your dreams.)