Every year during the Draft Combine, unlikely hopefuls show up to shoot their shot in the PBA. This year, it's Marko Adonis Villorente--a 39-year-old former chat support from Cavite.
The PBA Draft is chance for up-and-coming stars and hopefuls to try and make it to the league.
While not everyone can carve out a successful career in the PBA, everyone can at least try their luck in the PBA Draft.
Every year during the Draft Combine, unlikely hopefuls show up to shoot their shot in the PBA. The honor for Season 49 among 70 aspirants belongs to a 39-year-old man from Dasmariñas, Cavite—a rarity in such a youthful pool.
Marko Adonis Villorente, an avid PBA fan, took part in the Draft Combine, driven by his desire to gain experience in playing and understanding the league’s system.
"Gusto ko kasing ma-experience kung ano ang nangyayari, kung anong pakiramdam maglaro dito, kung anong sistema sa PBA," Marko shared.
As with any other hopeful, Marko has his dream PBA team. As with majority of Philippine basketball fans, his heart beats for Barangay Ginebra.
“Ginebra, team Ginebra. Ginebra kasi mula nung bata ako ‘yun na ‘yung sinusuportahan ko,” Villorente shared to One Sports.
When asked about his preferred position, Marko was quick to respond: “Madalas shooting guard.”
His draft chances aside, it’s worth noting that Marko’s overall Draft Combine experience was positive, which makes shooting his shot already worth it.
“Okay naman [‘yung experience], masaya. Nakakasabay pa naman,” Marko said.
In a star-studded PBA Draft, Marko Villorente’s choice of joining the Season 49 Draft Combine serves a reminder that persistence and passion know no age limit.