La Salle standout Justine Baltazar is set to fly to Japan and join a team in the B. League.
The 6’9” Baltazar informed Philippine Basketball Association commissioner Willie Marcial of his plans after skipping the two-day Rookie Draft Combine at the Gatorade Hoops Center in Mandaluyong yesterday.
Marcial said Baltazar wrote a letter to him, explaining why he is not joining this year’s PBA Draft.
Baltazar will join the likes of Bobby Ray Parks, Kobe Paras and Ravena brothers Thirdy and Kiefer, who all joined Japanese ballclubs.
There were around 58 rookie applicants who showed up at the Draft Combine.
Baltazar ranked second in the MVP race in season 84 of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines men’s basketball tournament.
The 25-year-old Baltazar made his decision known a day after receiving his UAAP season 84 Mythical Five award with 63 statistical points.
Ateneo’s Ange Kouame claimed the Season 84 MVP award with 69.214 SPs.
University of the Philippines’ Zavier Lucero was third with 62.0 SPs, followed by teammate Carl Tamayo at fourth with 57.643 SPs.
La Salle’s Michael Phillips was tied for sixth with his 54.643 SPs.
UP’s Carl Tamayo claimed the Rookie of the Year over Phillips.