Racal surprised to be in first round of PBA Draft

Dennis Acosta

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--All the online mock drafts did not have Kevin Racal as a projected first rounder, but on Sunday, Alaska made a bold move by selecting the Letran winger as the 11th overall pick of the PBA Draft at the Robinsons Place Manila.

Probably aware of the mock drafts, Racal admitted to Dugout Philippines that he was surprised to be picked that early in the draft.

"Nagulat nga ako na ako yung unang [pinili] ng Alaska," the 6-3 guard-forward said.

Racal believes that Assistant Coach Louie Alas, who saw the player's potentials during his stint in the Coca-Cola Hoopla tournament that prompted the mentor to bring him to Letran to be under his tutelage, played a role in selecting him in the first round.

"Siguro [kinuha na agad ako sa first round kasi] alam na ni Coach Louie [yung play ko]. Naging coach ko na si Coach Louie dati," Racal continued.

Asked on what he can contribute to the Aces in the pros after his NCAA stint is done, Racal answered, "Yung hustle at depensa ko ang maibibigay ko sa team na ito."

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