Teen hearthrob tries out for spot in Road Warriors' roster

Can a popular matinee idol turn himself into a basketball hearthrob? Teenage actor Gerald Anderson is trying to do just that as he has attended the practices of PBA D-League team North Luzon Expressway (NLEX). Anderson's attempt to join the Road Warriors was first reported in a tweet by Charles Tiu, brother of Pilipinas-Smart Gilas player Chris Tiu. It was confirmed by NLEX coach Boyet Fernandez after the team's victory over RnW Pacific Pipes. "We really appreciate that he is attending our practices," said Fernandez. The last time an actor joined an amateur basketball league was when Derek Ramsay played for Toyota Otis in the Philippine Basketball League (PBL) in mid-2000. Fernandez said that it was Anderson's idea to try out for the Road Warriors after he watched a Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) game recently. "One time, nanood siya ng game ng Meralco, and he talked to me through (player agent) Charlie Dy. He said that he wanted to get in shape," said Fernandez. "He is an off-guard and he can play," Fernandez said. There are unconfirmed reports that Anderson played in his high school basketball team in General Santos, but whether or not he can make it to NLEX's active roster remains to be seen. NLEX is already loaded in the guard position with Pamboy Raymundo, Erik Salamat and ex-pro Ogie Menor in the line-up. "Kami naman, no promises. We are not closing the door," said Fernandez. - Reuben Terrado, JVP, KY, GMA News