BACLAO

Top rookie Nonoy Baclao and Rabeh Al-Hussaini reported for practice for the first time on Tuesday at the Reyes Gym in Mandaluyong, showing no signs of tension or friction that followed the annual PBA rookie draft Sunday.

Al-Hussaini, the six-foot-seven King Eagle, did not hide his displeasure over not being chosen the top pick, saying it was an insult to play second fiddle to Baclao, his former Ateneo teammate.

Two days after his controversial outburst, Al-Hussaini put his frustration behind and practiced hard with Baclao and the rest of his teammates.

“I realized that it really doesn’t matter if you’re picked No. 1 or 2,” Al-Hussaini said. “Yes, I was hurt. I’m just human to feel that way.”

“But now, wala na sa akin iyon, frustration ko lang yun. It’s a new chapter now, time to go back to work,” Al-Hussaini added.

Assistant coach Roel Nadurata, who presided over the team practice in the absence of head coach Yeng Guiao, said the addition of top rookies has boosted their chances in the coming All-Filipino conference.

“Definitely, the rookies can help the team. We have a good composition now,” Nadurata said.

Al-Hussaini and Baclao, who guarded each other during practice, were later seen sharing light moments and exchanging tips for their post moves.

Al-Hussaini said he will channel his disappointment positively, adding he can use it as an extra motivation to prove his worth.

He cited the case of fellow Ateneo alumnus Larry Fonacier who was named the league’s Rookie of the Year in 2004 despite being chosen by Red Bull in 2003 as the 14th overall pick.

Fonacier has since wore the jerseys of San Miguel Beer and Alaska and now plays with Talk ‘N Text.

Carlo Sharma, Al-Hussaini’s half-brother who also plays for the Express, said that the important thing now is to focus.

“Of course, I’m proud of him. It’s rare for brothers to be given a chance to play together in one team,” said Sharma. “I’m looking forward to playing with him. What Rabeh needs is to focus now and forget the past, No. 1 or 2 it doesn’t matter.”

Air21 team captain Wynne Arboleda said: “OK lang naman siguro na ma-disappoint. But now, he has to accept it.”