Wesley willing to work his way up the hard way

It’s hard to tell what awaits Wesley Gonzales in the Philippine Basketball Association. But the FedEx Express rookie is certain his future in the pros rests on his performance this season.

With that in mind, Wesley is craving for sufficient playing time to be able to showcase his skills.

"For me, my rookie year is crucial because I have to make an impression and prove that I deserve to be here," he said.

But like most rookies, he tends to spend more time on the bench than on the floor that at times he couldn’t help but be envious of the opportunity enjoyed by fellow rookie and former Ateneo teammate Rich Alvarez.

"Honestly, my rookie year is less than what I expected," Wesley said without batting an eyelash. "So as much as possible, I want to do the best of what’s given to me even if it’s just for a few minutes.

"Feeling ko the other rookies are way ahead of me now.

Si Rich (Alvarez) grabe. Siyempre, di ko maiwasan na mainggit since I aspire for that playing time. But I’m happy for him. Sana he will totally utilize it kasi sayang. Kung ako, sobrang gagalingan ko," Wesley said.

A first round pick by FedEx, Wesley averaged 12 minutes a game while Alvarez, the top rookie pick, norms 27 minutes on the floor.

Nevertheless, Wesley, ninth pick overall in the 2004 draft, insists his plight serves him as a challenge to work harder and improve on his skills to attain his goal.

"As a player, you want to play the whole game. That is everyone’s wish. But I have no right to complain because I’m still starting. Wala pa akong napapatunayan.

"So I constantly work on my game. After practice, I would stay for another hour or two to work on my skills. I also observe closely how the games are played so that I am always prepared when I’m called to fill in the shoes of a veteran,"Wesley said.

He also admits he is willing to be traded if it means better exposure for him although he quickly adds he prefers to work his way up.

"I want to earn my minutes. Mas okay kapag pinaghirapan mo. I want to feel that I deserve it because I worked hard for it."

Oh yes, Wesley is slowly learning his lessons in the pros the hard way.

"Dito sa PBA survival. Di puwedeng daanin sa hangin at pa-cute sa court ang mga bagay-bagay."