Actor-model Cole Micek aims to prove he belongs in the PBA after being drafted by Rain or Shine

The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters turned heads during the 2025 PBA Rookie Draft after selecting actor-model Cole Micek with the 34th overall pick in the third round on Sunday, September 7, at the Mall of Asia Music Hall.

The move drew criticism from some observers, with many pointing out that Micek is better known for his work in show business, having built a reputation as both an actor and a model featured in several fashion magazines.

The 29-year-old, however, was quick to remind fans that basketball has always been his first love.

“Yeah, I have always had to fight that lately, you know? Because there has been a lot of modeling stuff that comes out. Pero I have been a basketball player my whole life. Like, I have played since I was a baby—my dad was a college coach—and basketball is my number one priority, my number one passion, and my first love,” Micek said during a media interaction.

Micek has the résumé to back up his words. He previously played collegiate basketball in the United States for the St. Francis Fighting Saints in NCAA Division I and later for the University of St. Francis Red Flash in the NAIA. He also suited up professionally for the Macau Black Bears in The Asian Tournament, in addition to stints in 3×3 competition and other international events.

“I just want to show people that, hey, I’m a basketball player first, and the modeling stuff, the acting stuff, that’s on the side. Tapos, sa PBA career ko, I’m really focused on basketball. Maybe if I have time to do the other stuff, I can, but that’s in the offseason. So, basketball is first talaga. I hope people understand that I’m always a hooper first,” he added.

WELCOME, ELASTO POGI COLE ☝🏽

Cole Micek from the Macau Black Bears is selected by the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters as the 34th overall pick in the PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft!#PBA50 #PBADraft #PBAAngatAngLaban pic.twitter.com/R89fTpbstP

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) September 7, 2025

Still, Micek will need to prove himself in training camp before securing a permanent roster spot. Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao made it clear that all rookies must earn their place.

“Titignan din namin because we might get surprised by any of these guys. Sa tingin ko wala tayo ‘yung superstars na ready-made na magkakaroon ng immediate impact, pero I feel that the potential of these guys is on the high side. Yung difference ng early picks sa late picks, hindi ganoon kalaki.

“Parang chambahan lang din ito. Baka mayroon ka makita diyan na magiging Jhonard Clarito or magiging Adrian Nocum. So all teams, including us, are always looking for those finds. The draft gives us the opportunity to bring these guys in, see them in practice, and then make a decision,” Guiao explained.

Regardless of how things play out, Micek said he is grateful for the opportunity and determined to silence the doubters.

“My focus is on the team, with Rain or Shine, and doing whatever it takes to help the team win. I’m just really excited to show what I’ve got and showcase my skill set. I’ve been playing my whole life, I’ve had international experience, and I’ve played all over, especially in 3×3. I’m just super excited to prove myself,” he said.

Meanwhile, the draft saw UAAP standout Geo Chiu go first overall to Terrafirma Dyip, while Juan Gomez de Liano landed at No. 2 with the Converge FiberXers. The Blackwater Bossing rounded out the Top 3 by selecting former Gilas Pilipinas Youth guard Dalph Panopio.

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