WONDERING why Abu Tratter, Diego Dario, and the rest of the Blackwater rookies were carrying ‘Dora The Explorer’ backpacks during the opener of the PBA 44th season?
Well, call it a part of their rookie initiation.
Like any other league newcomers, the 6-foot-6 Tratter and Co. have to go through such rites of passage, and, good naturedly, were assigned to bring along knapsacks bearing the feature of the famous American cartoon character.
The backpacks were courtesy of veteran guard Mike Cortez, according to Blackwater assistant coach Patrick Aquino.
“Rookie duties,” Aquino said with a sheepish smile when asked what the bags were all about.
Aside from Tratter and Dario, fellow rookies Paul Desiderio and Matt Salem were also provided with the props, which they have to bring along even during games.
“Actually, Mike (Cortez) told me it’s rookie duties for the whole year and sa lahat ng functions or activities ng Blackwater,” added Aquino, the winning coach of the National University Lady Bulldogs team.
So don't be surprised when you happen to see Desiderio and the rest of the Elite rookies carrying ‘Dora The Explorer’ around during games.
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