Doctor, WNBL No. 1 pick Cainglet happy to be a role model

MANILA, Philippines—Dr. Fille Claudine Cainglet was already doing great things even before she got drafted as Glutagence’s first overall pick in the Women’s National Basketball League.

Serving the fourth and final year of her orthopedic surgery residency at East Avenue Medical Center, Cainglet already has her hands  and now she’s taking on a new responsibility—a role model for young girls who want to excel off and on the court.

“I’m very happy to be a role model for the younger generation, to inspire them to follow their dreams, and that they can do anything they put their mind into,” said Cainglet the Glow Boosters’ virtual press conference Thursday.

“I’m happy to be that role model for them and I think I’m very happy I was able to achieve where I am now. Everything’s because of hard work, and nothing of value comes without hard work.”

Even the announcement of Cainglet’s draft was nothing short of inspirational.

The point guard out of University of the Philippines was operating on someone when she was announced as the league’s first overall pick and she couldn’t help but tear up while performing surgery.

Cainglet is also a beacon of inspiration for the unsung heroes of the COVID-19 pandemic—the health professionals who risk their lives every passing day.

“I’m happy to bring them inspiration and Kobe [Bryant] once said that greatness means to you’re able to inspire people,” said Cainglet. “If I bring inspiration to them in going to their duties during this pandemic then I’m happy to be that inspiration.”