Paul Desiderio, Abu Tratter join NLEX practice amid impending trade to Blackwater

Photo taken from the NLEX Road Warriors’ Twitter account

It seems to be only a matter of time until NLEX’s first round picks Paul Desiderio and Abu Tratter are officially traded to the Blackwater Elite.

But that didn’t keep Desiderio and Tratter from participating in their first practice as PBA rookies on Monday.

The former UAAP stars still joined the Road Warriors in practice amid a trade proposal that would ship them to the Elite in exchange for national team mainstay Poy Erram.

“It was a fun first day. I felt comfortable because there are many Visayans here like JR Quiñahan and Mac Tallo,” Desiderio said in Filipino as posted by the NLEX Road Warriors on their official Twitter account.

Desiderio, who led University of the Philippines to its first UAAP Finals appearance in 32 years, said he is also not affected by the trade.

“I have no problem with the trade because I’ll be happy with whichever team I end up playing. But today I was really excited to play with Larry Fonacier,” said the gutsy guard, who was the fourth overall pick in the 2018 PBA Draft on Sunday.

Tratter, who was picked seventh, also felt comfortable practicing with the Road Warriors.

The ex-La Salle big man added he’s also determined to make a name for himself in the professional ranks.

“I feel like I fit in but it’s not my decision, so I’m controlling what I can. Coach Yeng said he’s confident in our talent no matter what, so coming in today, I’m just excited to start my career. I’m gonna live like I was picked number one.”