Kai Ballungay is also making a few adjustments in his game for his transition to the pros.
Kai Ballungay knew he has his work cut out for him as far as skills are concerned despite being a projected first round pick in the PBA Draft.
Ballungay thus bared he is making some tweaks in his game ahead as he prepares for his transition to the pros.
After playing power forward for most of his two years with Ateneo, the 6-foot-7 cager now works on his handles to help him transition to a wing position in the PBA.
“My time with Ateneo, I was mostly a forward so I think I’m trying to transition my game to a wing position,” said Ballungay.
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“Being able to score at three levels, the three, the inside, the midrange, penetrating from the wing. Hopefully, use ball screens in the future, so I’m working on my handles. Those are things I’m working on right now.”
Kai Ballungay in action during the PBA Draft Combine last Wednesday, July 12 | Photo (c) PBA
The Cal State Stanislaus product is confident he could successfully achieve that in time for his PBA debut.
After all, he feels that his willingness to learn as one of the youngest at 22 years old in the 70-man draft would be his advantage.
“In my past interviews, I said it was my athleticism. And, really, if you take a look at all the applicants, I think it’s my age. Being one of the youngest in the draft, I think that works to my advantage,” said Ballungay.
Though expected to make an impact for any team right away, Ballungay said there is no pressure to deliver.
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“It’s something I’ve been working for. No pressure at all. I just want to go into a situation and be able to prove myself day in and day out, take the journey one step at a time. So there's no pressure,” he said.
Asked if there is any team he wishes to select him in the July 14 proceedings, Ballungay shared almost every PBA hopeful’s sentiment.
“[Whichever] team takes a chance on me, I’m excited for that,” he said.