Hopes are high for Fil-Am Rosales

KUALA LUMPUR – Fil-American Kris Rosales described his stint with the Singapore Slingers in the ASEAN Basketball League as a “new opportunity” after he was left as a free agent despite his selection in last year’s PBA draft.

The 25-year-old Rosales was chosen by Barako Bull in the second round of the draft but ended up playing for the Slingers when he failed to secure a roster spot prior to the start of the PBA season.

But instead of being discouraged, the 6-footer used the ABL campaign in a positive way.

“When I didn’t get signed, its because of certain reasons the coaches didn’t have no power over it,” Rosales said. “I didn’t look at it as a failure, I saw it as a new opportunity and I was able to come to the ABL for the Singapore Slingers and have more success.”

He averaged 9.4 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.1 assists this season, helping Singapore reach the ABL Finals for the first time. His pesky defending on Fil-Canadian Matthew Wright was key in the Slingers’ 84-80 win over the Westports Malaysia Dragons in the series opener last Friday.

While four PBA teams are reportedly interested in his services, Rosales said his main focus at this point is to help the Slingers capture their first title.

“I’m not really too worried about it, I’m just trying to focus on what’s in front of me,” Rosales said. “If I play well, then I play well, maybe teams would be interested in me. But all focus is now on the finals.

“Definitely as a Filipino you want to play in the top league of the Philippines, but I think my time will come one day, I’m really locked in on the ABL Finals.”

The Slingers were eyeing to take a commanding 2-0 lead in the best-of-five series against the Dragons at presstime in this Malaysian capital. The series shifts to Singapore next weekend for Game 3 and, possibly, Game 4.

Malaysia will host Game 5 if the series reaches the full route.