Junjun Alas out to prove critics wrong in PBA foray

MANILA, Philippines – Contrary to the perception of most observers that nepotism paved the way for his entry in the PBA, Kristoffer Alas insists he did not expect hearing his name called in the recently held 2014 PBA Draft.

“Sa totoo lang, na-surprise ako,” the burly Alas, popularly known by his nickname “Junjun,” told Philstar.com in a phone interview about getting the chance to pursue his PBA dream with the Alaska Aces.

The 25-year-old Alas, a former bruiser at Letran, had been selected by the Aces in the second round (16th overall) of the 2014 PBA Draft at Robinson’s Manila last Sunday, raising some eyebrows for getting tabbed ahead of other more talented players.

It could be noted that Junjun’s father, the ever-likeable Louie Alas, is an assistant coach for the Aces, something fans claim is the main reason for Alaska choosing the 6-foot-3 forward.

But the soft-spoken, mild-mannered Alas disagrees.

“I really did not expect to get drafted, so I was just happy to get the chance to fulfill my dream,” he explained.

It was an afternoon to remember for the Alas family, who saw two of its members making it to the country’s premier professional basketball league. Junjun’s younger brother, Gilas cadet pool member and former Letran standout Kevin, had been selected by Rain or Shine as the second overall pick.

For years, Junjun had stood behind Kevin’s shadow when the brothers played for Letran in the NCAA. And now that he has the chance to make a name for himself in the PBA, the elder Alas vowed to make the most out of the opportunity.

“I will work on my defense. Yan ang magiging biggest contribution ko sa Alaska,” he added.

More importantly, Alas is out to silence critics by starting to get in shape before the 2014-2015 season starts on Oct. 19.

“My goal is to lose more weight,” said Alas, who tipped the scales 240 pounds at the PBA Draft Combine, making him the batch’s heaviest rookie hopeful.

 The Aces came away as winners in the annual draft, picking Chris Banchero at No. 5 and former San Beda hotshot Rome Dela Rosa at No. 13. And Alas is out to prove he’s the icing on the cake.

“Playing under my dad again will be a big advantage since I learned a lot from him. And I feel I will become a better player under coach Alex Compton,” he said.

“I’m just very happy to be in the PBA.”