Most young talented Filipino basketball players are bringing their act abroad somewhere Asia or beyond for greener pastures. 

Young gun Tyler Reyes, a promising 6-foot-8 teenager from the De La Salle-Zobel high school, is one of those who are dreaming to play not only in the pro leagues in Japan, South Korea, and Australia but also in the National Basketball Association (NBA). 

Yes, the 15-year-old son of former Philippine Basketball Association player 6-foot-7 Jay-R Reyes wants to become the first-ever homegrown Filipino to play in the world’s most highly competitive basketball professional league — the NBA. 

“My goal alongside many other young players is to play in the NBA but keeping other options to be able to play in another next level leagues like the Japanese B. League, National Basketball League (NBL) or Korean Basketball League (KBL) is something I aspire to be able to do,” Reyes said. 

There are many young players who are now playing abroad like Kai Sotto, AJ Edu, and Dwight Ramos in Japan B. League, and Carl Tamayo in the KBL. 

Tyler, whose mother is former University of the Philippines volleyball player Jen Ablan-Reyes, is a natural big man with a decent touch beyond the arc who idolizes NBA superstars Kevin Durant, Anthony Edwards, Luka Doncic, and Kyrie Irving. 

“I am more than willing to give my NBA dream a shot in the future if the opportunity presents itself,” he added.

“I do have a plan to get a college scholarship in the US to be able to play in the US NCAA alongside many of the nations recognized greatest players and for a free education.” 

Speaking of getting a US college scholarship, Tyler knew the path of making it a reality is not easy. Like his younger sister Tiffany, he is also currently in Cincinnati, US attending basketball clinics to improve his skill sets mentally and physically. 

Aside from improving his individual skills, Tyler is also eyeing to improve his handles, defense, and decision makings inside the court to turn to a total package in the US after his stints in the Junior Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League and University Athletic Association of the Philippines Jr. 

“I prepare, and train myself in all aspects — physically, mentally, and spiritually. I make it a habit to stay consistent, disciplined. I do this by sticking to my routine of stretching everyday, working out 4 times a week, improving on my skills everyday, and having a deep and close relationship with God.” 

He is also hoping to serve the country as part of Gilas Pilipinas someday. 

“Being able to play and represent my country through basketball is one of my biggest dreams, it would be my chance and an opportunity to display my skills on a bigger and international stage,” Reyes said, adding that Filipinos have a great chance of making it to the Olympics soon. 

“I believe we Filipinos have a chance to make it in the Olympic basketball because of our passion, and pure love for the game.” Reyes added that his father always remind him of talent is good but hard work is what separates the good players from the great.