Dalph Panopio ready to bring overseas experience to Blackwater

MANILA, Philippines — Third overall pick Dalph Panopio is eyeing to help the Blackwater Bossing team grow, as he brings his wealth of experience over to the PBA.

The Filipino-Italian guard was selected with the third pick by the Bossing, behind top pick Geo Chiu and Juan Gomez-de Liano.

Now, the former Gilas Pilipinas youth floor general is teaming up with microwave scorer Sedrick Barefield and big man Christian David, forming a formidable young core for Blackwater.

“This happens once in a lifetime, so I’m just trying to enjoy,” he told reporters after being selected.

“[Blackwater] had top picks before, and now, I hope and I’ll try my best to help the team grow and develop. Having so much talent, I’m really excited to play with them,” he added.

After playing for Gilas in the youth level, Panopio also saw action in the US NCAA Division 1 with the Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners. He also played professionally in Korea and India.

The 6-foot-1 guard impressed in the Draft Combine, being named in the rookie showcase’s Mythical Five.

He showed his three-level scoring, as well as his passing chops, which resulted in the boost in stock.

He said that since he tried out with the Bossing, he already “felt connected to the team.”

“Somehow, the system [of Coach Jeff Cariaso] really helped me in my tryout. It wasn’t like having a practice, I was having fun and enjoying, so that is something that I’m happy about and something that is important. I feel like I can fit in their system,” he said.

“I already feel the connection not only with my coach but also my teammates. They are a talented group of guys, they were helping me and pushing me.”

Panopio also relished being selected third overall in the draft, saying he thought he was going to be picked in the second round.

And now, he has fulfilled the dream of his family to be drafted and play in the PBA.

“I’m happy and grateful to be in this situation. It just gives me more motivation, so I try to be as ready as I can.”