Benjie Paras letting son Kobe ‘go with the flow’ career-wise

MANILA, Philippines  — Behind every young athlete’s success is a proud parent.

Usually, they’re the ones who chart the future of their child’s career.

But that’s not the case for the career of a second-generation prospect in Kobe Paras.

“Sila nagdedecide nung handler niya,” Kobe’s father, PBA legend Benjie, said when asked about his son’s career moves. “Wala naman akong alam masyado. Mas alam ng handler niya.”

The young Paras, who was originally bound for UCLA in the NCAA two years ago, moved to play for Creighton University in Nebraska instead. He saw action with the Bluejays for a season and then eventually announced that he would be playing for Cal State Northridge back in Los Angeles.

“I just go with the flow, support whatever decision he’s going to make,” the PBA legend said. “Sabi nila, [Kobe’s] better off in L.A.”

The patriarch shared that he thinks son has improved a lot.

“Andun na ‘yung maturity… The way he talks to people… Pangalawa, ‘yung tapang—he’s no pushover. Kahit sino ‘di niyan aatrasan,” the PBA’s only Rookie-MVP said.

But at the same time, the elder Paras also thinks there’s still a lot more to refine on the youngster’s game.

“Sa akin siguro, kelangan niya pa mag-improve sa lahat,” the cager-turned-comedian said. “Siguro, ang ‘di ko na lang maituturo, ‘yung depensa.”

Asked on whether there’s any sign of dispiritedness from the 19-year-old after being required to serve residency again, the older Paras said there’s none.

“I don’t see any frustration coming from him,” he said. “Sinabi niya lang, ‘It’s a good thing magkakaroon ng residency. I can get more units and concentrate on studies.’”

“‘Yun ang nakakatuwa kasi bihira ‘yun,” the four-time PBA champion and 2-time league MVP said.