Justine Baltazar’s Training with Converge Described as ‘Great’
Photo Source: UAAP, PBA
After much anticipation, the number one pick of the 2024 PBA Draft, Justine Baltazar, started training full time with the Converge FiberXers on Tuesday, December 10, and by all accounts, he did not disappoint. A source who witnessed the session described Baltazar’s performance as “great,” underscoring his readiness to make an immediate impact in the PBA.
He is expected to make his PBA debut soon, likely in one of Converge’s upcoming games.
Baltazar, a former La Salle standout in the UAAP who honed his skills further in the MPBL, joined the FiberXers following his stint with the Pampanga Giant Lanterns. Despite the rigorous schedule he’s maintained in recent months, the 6-foot-7 forward displayed his potential during the practice session.
The source noted that while Baltazar is expected to contribute significantly to the team’s performance, Converge plans to manage his workload carefully to avoid burnout.
“We will probably break him in slowly. He hasn’t had rest,” the source revealed, hinting that the FiberXers could consider a minutes restriction for Baltazar as he acclimates to the PBA’s grind. Despite this measured approach, there’s confidence that the young star will still deliver.
“He will definitely have immediate impact [once he starts playing],” the source added.
Baltazar’s arrival is a significant boost for Converge, which has been building a young, competitive core. His combination of size, skill, and experience in high-stakes environments positions him as a cornerstone for the franchise’s future.
