Andre Paras Savors Chance To Learn From Coach Chot, Kiefer Ravena In Chooks

Whether he makes the final cut for Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas or not, Andre Paras is just happy to join practice and learn under national mentor Chot Reyes.

One of two reserves for the club team representing the Philippines in FIBA Asia Champions Cup, the stocky Paras has joined Chooks-to-Go’s practice since Day One.

The son of PBA legend Benjie Paras admits he’s enjoying the experience working with members of the squad led by veteran Southeast Asian Games campaigner Kiefer Ravena, while trying to embrace the culture of learning as well.

“I just learned a lot in practice since (brother) Kobe (Paras) was here, so work ethics and pretty much values. In fact, coach Chot promised everyone will get better,” Paras told FOX Sports.

“Sila Kiefer, they come to practice 2 hours before time, so ako naman, I do shootaround with the help of the staff and I work on 100 shots, and work on my free throws.”

While the eldest son of Benjie Paras showcased his strong inside game that resulted to monster rebound average of 18 boards, along with 7.33 points for AMA Titans in the recent PBA D-League Foundation Cup, Andre Paras explained he has also developed a new facet of his game with Chooks/Gilas.

“I had to change my game because during the first and second practices, I can’t grab rebounds because there are designated players for that, so I play like stretch 4 or stretch 3, unlike at AMA when I was more of a 5,” Paras shared.

“But it was a good experience for me and I pretty much create and worked more on my outside game, which is pretty much different for me compared to the D-League,” he added.

For now, the 21-year-old Paras said joining the PBA Rookie Draft is not part of his goal as of the moment.

“Sa draft, that’s not really coming to my mind yet. I’ll just finish the (upcoming D-League) conference muna with AMA. You guys might see me apply on the draft next year or in the years to come pa,” he said.

“You can be tall, strong and athletic pero kailangan din ng discipline, and that’s something I learned from them (Reyes and coaching staff),” said Paras.

“Thankfully sa mga pratcice, I see the result of listening to my coach and my dad, and hopefully, I can apply to any team I will join,” he added.

Source: Fox Sports