Terrafirma signs 8th overall pick James Laput to three-year deal

James Pado-Laput became the first draftee to sign a contract after the 8th overall pick came to terms with Terrafirma on Thursday.

The 24-year old Laput, who at 6-foot-10 was the tallest aspirant during the recently concluded PBA Season 46 Draft, signed a three-year deal in the presence of Dyip governor Bobby Rosales and his agent PJ Pilares from the Titan Management Group.

Despite his height, Laput found no takers in the upper half of the first round since he is still considered a “project” with a lot of potential due to his height and agility.

He suited up for De La Salle University in UAAP Season 82 as a one-and-done player and is a graduate of Young Harris College in Georgia, US.

Laput will join a Dyip frontline composed of Russel Escoto, Aldrech Ramos, Eric Camson, Christian Balagasay, and Joseph Gabayni.

Top overall pick Joshua Munzon, on the other hand, is still engaged in contract discussions with team management.

“We’re still in talks with him,” replied Rosales when asked about Munzon’s status.

Once on board, Munzon will take over the role of CJ Perez who was earlier traded to the San Miguel Beermen.