MANILA, Philippines – San Miguel star Terrence Romeo issued Kyt Jimenez a lofty challenge, saying he wants the incoming rookie to make waves in the PBA.

The Beermen excluded Jimenez from their opening day roster, although he is expected to join the storied franchise once he fulfills his contractual obligations with Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League side GenSan Warriors.

Jimenez, signed to a two-year deal by San Miguel after being picked 76th overall in the last PBA Draft, got activated by the Warriors for their do-or-die quarterfinal duel against the Muntinlupa Cagers on Tuesday, October 24.

“We talk often. I told him it’s easy to reach the PBA, but the hard part is staying for a long time,” said Romeo in Filipino on Tuesday during the Media Day at the One Esplanade in Pasay City.

“I told him to find a way to last long in the PBA and make sure that he dominates and makes a name for himself,” added Romeo. “He should aim to reach his full potential so he can be one of the players who dominate the PBA.”

Romeo is speaking from experience.

At the peak of his PBA powers, Romeo won three straight scoring titles from 2015 to 2017, made the Mythical First Team in 2016, and earned All-Star Game MVP honors thrice.

The flamboyant guard also has a Finals MVP plum under his belt.

Romeo said he likes what he sees from Jimenez, the social media sensation who is the first and only player in MPBL history to record a quadruple-double when he achieved the rare feat with the Sarangani Marlins in 2022.

“The kid is very hardworking, he listens, and he has a strong work ethic. He has been showing out in practice,” said Romeo.

“I’m excited to be teammates with him and to share the court with him.”

Jimenez owns averages of 7 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.4 steals in the ongoing MPBL season. – Rappler.com