SMB rookie Kyt Jimenez savors first PBA title

From the gritty courts of street basketball to the grandeur of professional competition, the ascent of online sensation and San Miguel neophyte Kyt Jimenez to PBA champion was a journey few could have foreseen, least of all Jimenez himself.

Yet, there he stood, amidst his Beermen comrades, raising the PBA Season 48 Commissioner’s Cup trophy at the iconic Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Reflecting on his path from local tournaments to rookie glory, the 26-year-old marveled at his transformation from an underdog to a champion.

“Sobrang sarap sa feeling kasi alam naman ng karamihan naglalaro lang ako ng ligang labas, dumadayo, sobrang thankful ako kay Lord kasi dinala nya ko rito,” said Jimenez shortly after the Beermen claimed their record-extending 29th league title.

Drafted as the 76th pick in the 2023 PBA rookie draft, Jimenez’s perseverance and dedication earned him a place in the esteemed Beermen roster.

Despite limited playing time behind established stars like CJ Perez and Terrence Romeo, Jimenez’s relentless work ethic shone through in every practice session.

“Tinatyaga ko talaga through practice nakita naman ako nila coach, alam naman nila ‘yon,” said Jimenez who made it clear that playing time has never been an issue.

“Alam kong darating ‘yong time na magagawa ko rin ‘yong nagagawa nila. Sakin sobrang sarap sa feeling kasi kasama ko sila, ta’s marami pa akong natutunan na knowledge,” he added.