Former professional basketball player-turned-coach Jimmy Alapag shared that Filipinos have a chance to play in the NBA. In an interview with King of Talk Boy Abunda on Fast Talk, the former Sacramento Kings player development coach revealed that “it’s just a matter of time” before Filipino basketball players can fight it out in the prestigious league.
Jimmy is now back in the Philippines with his wife, actress LJ Moreno, as he takes on a new role: head coach of the NLEX Road Warriors.
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“Absolutely, kaya,” Jimmy said.
When asked why there aren’t any Filipino players in the NBA yet, he believed the country is close to having one, given the recent talent being produced.
“Well, at the end of the day, the NBA is really the best in the world. I think we’re close and I just think kailangan moving forward. You see the growth of Filipino players–– I think this generation you see the talent. So I think it’s just a matter of time,” he explained.
“Hindi kailangan ng height necessarily. Obviously, it helps, but again I think it’s obviously the talent, the work ethic, and sometimes it’s the timing–– yung right opportunity to step in,” he added.
Jimmy then shared how Kai Sotto is in the “right direction” if ever he plays in the upcoming summer league of the NBA.
“Ngayon, obviously someone like Kai Sotto is close. I heard he’s gonna be playing in the upcoming summer league and I think that’s a great step in the right direction if the NBA is his goal. After summer league, if you play well, then the next step is getting invited to training camp,” he maintained.
While he moves forward as the head coach of the PBA team, he acknowledged that there are expectations, but he is excited to share the lessons he gained during his time in the NBA.
“I think expectations are high, but it’s okay. It’s expected. Just looking forward to the challenge. I think we have a great staff, great group of players, and I’m just excited to share lahat that I learned back in the States,” he ended.