While a new record 128 aspirants beat the deadline set last Sunday, September 10 for the 2023 PBA Rookie Draft, potential top pick Justin Baltazar elected to skip the annual proceedings.
Terrafirma coach John Cardel said the 6-foot-8 Baltazar would have been a top rookie prospect due to his size, rebounding and ability to score, something the Dyip are looking for as they prepare for the PBA's coming Season 48.By the time Baltazar was done with his collegiate stint with La Salle, the 26-year-old forward earned three Mythical First team in the UAAP, along with winning a collegiate championship with the Green Archers in 2016.
Currently, Baltazar is leading the charge for the Pampanga Lanterns in the MPBL.Still, the 2023 PBA Draft pool is not bereft with talent with this year's rookie proceedings having the likes of Ricci Rivero, Zav Lucero, Fran Yu, Dominick Fajardo, Brandon Bates, Luis Villegas, Sherwin Concepcion, John Amores and James Kwekuteye.They join earlier applicants led by Filipino-American shooting guard Stephen Holt, Ken Tuffin, Kenmark Carino, Brent Paraiso and Schonny Winston.
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