Miggy Corteza joins Rain or Shine in the 2024 PBA Draft.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Former College of St. Benilde star Miggy Corteza realized his childhood dream when his name was called in the second round of the 2024 PBA Draft.
And Corteza couldn’t have written a better script after being drafted by Rain or Shine–his favorite team growing up.
“Honestly, I’m so blessed to be picked by Rain or Shine. I told my parents and even coach Charles (Tiu), I have really wanted to play for Rain or Shine ever since I was a kid,” said Corteza, who was selected 20th overall in Sunday’s draft.
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“I already looked up to them [before] and coach Yeng (Guiao), with how he develops his players. I hope I can contribute to him and the team.”
In retrospect, it does seem like Corteza was destined to be an Elasto Painter having played for coaches in college linked to the PBA franchise. Ty Tang, who played all of his seven seasons in the PBA with Rain or Shine, was Corteza’s first coach at Benilde. Corteza then finished his NCAA career playing for Charles Tiu, the younger brother of another former Elasto Painter Chris. Just like Tang, Chris Tiu spent all six seasons at Rain or Shine.
Corteza also said one of his basketball idols is longtime Rain or Shine center Beau Belga.
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“I honestly don’t know what to feel,” said Corteza when asked how he feels about getting to team up with Belga.
“Last season, he played really well so I hope I can take a lot of teaching points from him, improve and be like him one day.”
The 6-foot-4 Corteza played a key role in helping Benilde end a 20-year finals drought in the NCAA in Season 98 in 2022. He averaged 17.7 points and 6.3 rebounds in the Blazers’ championship series loss to the Letran Knights.
Before getting drafted in the PBA, Corteza suited up in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL).
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