Bacolodnon guard Kib Montalbo is set to make his professional debut with the TNT KaTropa when they take on the Phoenix Pulse Fuel Masters in the 2020 PBA Philippine Cup this afternoon at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City. He will feature with fellow rookie Valandre Chauca; alongside Jayson Castro, Bobby Ray Parks, Jr., Simon Enciso, Ryan Reyes, Almond Vosotros, and Rodel de Leon.
“It’s an unimaginable feeling to be drafted to the PBA but to practice with veterans like Jayson Castro is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said the former De La Salle University (DLSU) standout. “Since I’m already here, I’ll make the most of it.”
“I will always be ready to earn my spot on the team,” he added.
Meanwhile, his father Roger Montalbo expressed happiness for his son’s accomplishment.
“I’m so proud of what he has achieved, especially that he finished his high school here in Bacolod City.” he said.
However, he also acknowledge the work his son has ahead of him.
“He has to work his way in the rotation,” Montalbo pointed out. “He will play his role 101 percent – that’s for sure.”
“Minutes aren’t given, they are earned; it won’t be easy,” he added. “He has to work hard.”
Prior to joining DLSU, the PBA rookie played with the St. John’s Institute. He also suited up for the AMA Online Education Titans and Marinerong Pilipino Skippers in the PBA D-League, along with the Makati Super Crunch in Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League.