Ronald Pascual, JR Cawaling pull out of PBA draft

AKTV/Paul Ryan Tan

At least two big names have pulled out of Sunday’s PBA rookie draft.

San Sebastian star wingman Ronald Pascual and former Far Eastern University hotshot JR Cawaling have removed their names from consideration for this year’s draft.

The PBA confirmed the news to InterAKTV.

“Ang sabi ni Pascual, next year na lang daw siya kasi malalim daw yung pool ngayon,” said a PBA official who requested anonymity.

The same source added that from 71 applicants, the applicants have been reduced to 57.

Pascual had been projected as a potential first round pick, while Cawaling was expected to go in the second round.

June Mar Fajardo, a 6-foot-10 slotman out of Cebu, is expected to be the top overall pick. Pascual’s San Sebastian teammate Calvin Abueva, former SMART-Gilas captain Chris Tiu, and versatile guard Alex Mallari are expected to be among the top picks.

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