Barangay Ginebra San Miguel rookie Sonny Estil (left) and Agusan del Sur star Rene Baterbonia (right). Photos from PBA Images/NBTC.MANILA — While Sonny Estil’s efforts were not seen much on the hard court throughout the PBA Finals, the Agusan del Sur native still relished the fruits of his labor — his first-ever PBA championship.
“Sobrang saya ko. Dream come true ito,” the 24-year-old rookie told ABS-CBN News after Barangay Ginebra San Miguel took down TNT Tropang 5G, 88-76, in Game 7 of the Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup Finals.
READ: Gin Kings reign supreme over Tropang 5G, clinch Commissioner’s Cup crown
Estil saw limited action throughout the conference, only logging 1.6 points, 0.7 rebounds, and 0.3 assists in nine appearances for the Gin Kings.
Still, the 11th overall pick of the Season 50 Rookie Draft kept his head up high, saying that he continues to stay ready for the next time his number gets called.
“If ever, kung bibigyan pa ako ni coach ng more playing time, mas gagawin ko pa 'yung best ko,” said Estil.
As he savors his first championship in the professional ranks, Estil has not forgotten his roots, hoping that his current success could serve as his own contribution to better things to come for Agusan del Sur, a province that is also mourning the loss of one of its promising basketball stars, Rene Baterbonia.
“Condolences kay Rene,” said Estil. “Magaling 'yung bata, nasayang lang.”
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