PBA Draft 2023 pick Kyt Jimenez. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines–Kyt Jimenez described being selected by San Miguel Beer as one of the last picks of the PBA Rookie Draft as something that is beyond his wildest dreams.
“I feel like I’m in heaven because this has been my dream since I was young,” the online hoops sensation-turned MPBL cager said in Filipino following Sunday’s proceedings at Market! Market! in Taguig City.
Jimenez was emotional upon being the 75th among 79 names called during the draft, and also drew the loudest applause given his popularity on social media that started in 2020 at the height of the pandemic.
His obvious appeal was also evident after the draft when a number of security people had to make ways to escort Jimenez out of the activity area and into a restaurant where he and the rest of the San Miguel draftees were treated to a post-draft dinner with team officials.
“They have given me so much support, whether I was picked or not,” said Jimenez.
Now he faces the next challenge of his hoop career which is to earn a spot on a talent-laden San Miguel roster that includes Terrence Romeo, whom Jimenez looks up to.
Jimenez said he and Romeo had already talked, and he is hoping to learn more from the rest of the Beermen once he joins the team’s practice sessions.
“I didn’t expect that San Miguel was going to pick me. I couldn’t help but cry when they called my name towards the end,” he added.