SMALL in size but big in heart.
JP Calvo overcame his lack of size with a big-time effort after showing the way for Team A2 in its finale against Team A3, 76-64, in the final day of the PBA Gatorade Draft Combine at the Hoops Center in Mandaluyong.
The Letran ace exploded for 23 points and emerged as the hands-down MVP of the two-day event that had a total of 47 rookie applicants showing their wares and skills. He won P10,000 courtesy of Gatorade and a watch from Tag Heuer.
Calvo disclosed he needed to showcase his talent since he’s among the smallest hopefuls in the Class of 2018.
“Sobrang laking importante (ito) para sa akin kasi nga maliit ako, so kailangan kong magpakita,” said the 5-foot-7 guard. “Kaya ginawa ko lang kung ano yung advantage ko.”
Calvo was also named to the Mythical Team along with Robert Bolick, Javee Mocon, Michael Calisaan, and CJ Isit – all of them playing in the NCAA.
The MVP and Mythical team selections obviously boosted his confidence about suiting up in Asia’s pioneering play-for-pay league.
“Malaking bagay ito kasi baka madala ako sa PBA nitong confidence na ito kasi kaya ko naman pala,” he said.
Two teams in NorthPort and Phoenix already invited him for a tryout, although no guarantee was given by both teams that they will select him in Sunday’s rookie draft.
“Hindi naman ako nag-expect na kukunin nila ako. At least pumunta ako para i-try kung kaya ko ba o hindi,” said Calvo, who won an NCAA championship with Letarn in 2015.
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