Ricci Rivero to throw name in PBA Rookie Draft

After a short stint with Taoyuan Pilots in Taiwan’s P.League+ last year, Ricci Rivero is set to throw his name in the PBA Rookie Draft set on September 17 at the Market! Market! in Taguig.

The 25-year-old Rivero made this known in Noli Eala’s Power and Play program on Saturday.

Ricci Rivero UAAP PHOTO 

“It’s always been the dream [to play in the PBA],” said Rivero, whose PBA interest got piqued by his idols Jayjay Helterbrand and Mark Caguioa of Barangay Ginebra.

“We are from Isabela and as kids, we were really thrilled everytime we come to the Metro fand watch the PBA, especially when we’re watching ‘The Fast and The Furious’. I really idolized Kuya Jay and Kuya Mark.”

Rivero played for La Salle and UP, winning a championship each with both schools in the UAAP men’s basketball seasons 79 and 84, respectively.

The 6-foot-1 combo guard also made it to the Mythical Team in 2017 while he was still playing for La Salle in UAAP Season 80 men’s basketball tournament back in 2017.

After helping UP ends its 36-year title drought in Season 84 back in May 2022, Rivero went on to sign with Taoyuan Pilots in Taiwan’s P.League+.

Rivero, however, did not get to play even a single game reportedly due to injuries — jumper’s knee and right ankle sprain, which forced him to ask for release from the Pilots so he could heal up.

“It’s really my dream to play in the PBA. I didn’t get to grab the opportunity right away as I had the chance to play in another country. But here I am, it’s always been the dream of mine growing up [to play in the PBA].”