BACK in 2015, Eric Miraflores – a virtual unknown among Philippine basketball fans – left Australia to chase his dream of playing in the PBA.
Then the oldest player in the draft at 33, Miraflores was one of nine players left undrafted in a loaded draft class that boasted the likes of Scottie Thompson, Troy Rosario and Baser Amer.
Frustrated and heartbroken, Miraflores went back to Australia and thought his dream of playing pro basketball in his home country was over – until the Zamboanga Valientes came calling.
Now pushing 36 but looking fresh and reinvigorated as ever, Miraflores will now be living his dream of playing in a professional league in the Philippines through the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League.
For Miraflores – perseverance does pay off.
The rewards may come in late, but hard workers would always reap what they sow.
“After the PBA draft I was shattered but I was happy that I was given a chance to join the rookie combine. It’s still a blessing. I got to meet different coaches and players," Miraflores said.
"When I got back to Australia, I thought I was done,” he added. “I still played in Australia, but after three years, I never thought I’ll come back again.
"This is a dream come true. Hopefully I’ll make a big impact in the team. This is a very big blessing,” he added.
Miraflores was born from Filipino parents and migrated in Australia in 2006. He juggled two lives – his day job in a Tint-A-Car company while honing his basketball skills in various semi-professional leagues.
He was convinced to take a shot in the big league in 2015 but instead got a humbling reality check.
But with the MPBL giving his dream a new lease on life, Miraflores couldn’t be any more thankful.
“When you’re a kid, you dream to be in this position. The PBA is the top level but Mr. Manny Pacquiao formed this league for Filipinos so it’s good that everyone gets a chance to play professionally,” he said. “It’s just good to be back home.”
His PBA dream might be a long shot but that doesn’t mean Miraflores has given up. He promised to give it all for the Valientes who gave him a shot at his lifelong dream.
“This is a stepping stone for me. I never give up. But at the end of the day, I’m here now and I’m just treating it day by day. Praying to avoid injury. We got a good group. I’m just really happy. I feel home.”