PBA Rookie Draft aspirant Kai Ballungay during the 2024 Draft Combine. -MARLO CUETO/INQUIREr.net
MANILA, Philippines–Kai Ballungay is not letting his lofty billing of being one of the top prospects in the PBA Rookie Draft get to his head.
“I like to go into every situation thinking that I have something to prove,” Ballungay said after taking part in Wednesday’s Draft Combine at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
The Ateneo product heads to the proceedings on July 14 as one of the potential top choices in the first round with his size and athleticism that is expected to attract teams in need of his services.
READ: As deadline expires, PBA Draft pool suddenly ‘interesting’
Two teams initially got an early look at the 6-foot-6 Ballungay in Blackwater, which has the second pick, and Phoenix, slated to select fourth overall in the draft to be held at Glorietta in Makati City.
During the combine, Ballungay was measured with an armspan of 80 feet and was among the highest-leaping applicants with a vertical jump of 37.4 (standing) and 39.4 (running) inches.
“People say that I’m a top-five pick [or a] top-10 pick, so be it. I’m gonna put in the work and try to prove myself,” said Ballungay.
READ: Justine Baltazar, RJ Abarrientos lead PBA Rookie Draft aspirants
Ballungay is taking his talents to the country’s big league after two seasons with the Blue Eagles, opting to skip his final year of eligibility to take himself to the next level.
So what prompted Ballungay to make the decision?
“I just took advantage of the opportunity,” said Ballungay. “As an athlete, it’s a short window and you have to maximize your priorities.
“I had two great seasons with Ateneo and I felt like it’s time to move on the professional ranks,” he added.