Aguilar is first Filipino drafted by NBA D-League team

MANILA, Philippines – Japeth Aguilar may be one step closer to becoming the first Filipino born and raised in the Philippines to play in the NBA D-League.

On Friday, November 2, the Pampanga-born 25-year-old was drafted 13th in the 7th round — 109th overall — by the Santa Cruz Warriors, the D-League affiliate team of the Golden State Warriors. He has yet to be signed.

The D-League serves as a stepping stone for aspiring players to enter the NBA.

While the accomplishment is a first for a Filipino, Aguilar’s agent, Matthew Manotoc said he was not surprised.

“Well I’m personally unsurprised he got drafted since everyone agrees his potential is unlimited,” he said. “It’s a huge feat for Philippine basketball and probably the first step to a Filipino making the NBA.”

“That’s not to say he’ll make the NBA as most D-leaguers don’t, but it’s a big step forward as it is,” he added.

Aguilar, who played for Western Kentucky in college, an NCAA Division I school, has tried to enter the NBA League in the past, attending pre-season camps. Last September, Aguilar was invited to train with the New Orleans Hornets but scout Don Seller was quoted as saying that Aguilar was not yet ready for the NBA.

The 6-foot-10 forward has  most recently played with Talk N’ Text while in the PBA, and the national team Smart-Gilas. 

On his Twitter account, Aguilar expressed thanks to supporters who congratulated him for the feat. He also tweeted his praise upon hearing the news, posting, “Thank you Lord!!! God is great!!” and later on, “God is in control of everything. Will work hard for the next 2 weeks.” – Rappler.com