Ping Exciminiano might not be a household name in Philippine basketball, but for those who really follow the PBA, his name stands for hustle, grit, and heart. Over 12 seasons in the league, Ping built a career that wasn’t about scoring titles or highlight plays — it was about doing the little things that helped his team win. His last stop was with TNT Tropang Giga, where he wrapped up a career built on hard work and selflessness.

Ping started out as a role player, but from the beginning, he made it clear he was willing to do whatever it took to stay on the floor. He wasn’t the guy taking the final shot or leading the team in points — but he was the one chasing down loose balls, locking up scorers on defense, and bringing energy every time he stepped on the court.

He first made a name for himself with the Alaska Aces, where his intensity and defense quickly stood out. It didn’t take long for fans to appreciate his game — not flashy, but effective. He earned his minutes by being a pest on defense, always ready to guard the other team’s best perimeter player. That kind of effort doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet, but coaches and teammates noticed — and respected it.

Over the years, Exciminiano became known as one of the league’s hardest workers. He was never the star of the team, but he was the kind of player every team needs. He embraced his role, stayed in shape, and kept his head down, even when the spotlight was elsewhere. As the seasons went on and younger players came into the league, Ping transitioned into more of a veteran presence, especially during his time with TNT. Even if he wasn’t getting big minutes, he was still contributing — helping guide younger guys and showing them how to carry themselves like professionals.

Ping’s career wasn’t loud, but it was steady, reliable, and full of heart. He played for over a decade in the PBA, and that alone is something most players can only dream of. It’s easy to get caught up in star power, but players like Exciminiano are the glue that holds teams together. His final season with TNT might not have made headlines, but it was a fitting end to a career built on doing the right things — with no ego, just effort.

In a league full of stars and big names, Ping Exciminiano was a reminder that there’s still a place for players who put the team first, do the dirty work, and play the game the right way.

Meanwhile, Barasi, selected in the second round, was seen as a promising addition to Ginebra’s frontcourt. Standing at 6-foot-7 with a solid build, he showed potential to be a strong interior presence. Many fans expected him to be part of Ginebra’s future plans, especially with their need for fresh legs in the paint. However, as roster decisions tightened and priorities shifted, Ginebra made the tough call to leave him unsigned — a move that surprised some, but was not uncommon in a competitive league like the PBA.

For Barasi, it could have been a moment of discouragement. But just as doors closed, another opened.

NorthPort gave him a second shot, offering a contract and a fresh environment where he could grow and prove himself. Unlike Ginebra, which is often loaded with star talent and veteran depth, NorthPort has a reputation for developing younger players and giving them real minutes on the floor. For Barasi, this could be a blessing in disguise.

At NorthPort, he’ll have more opportunities to showcase what he can do — whether it’s battling for rebounds, defending the paint, or simply bringing energy off the bench. He doesn’t need to be a superstar right away. What matters is his effort, attitude, and how he adjusts to the demands of the professional game.

More than anything, Barasi’s journey so far is a reminder of how unpredictable sports can be. One moment you’re celebrating a draft selection, the next you’re left off the final roster. But what matters most is how a player responds — and Barasi seems ready to rise to the challenge.

This fresh start at NorthPort gives him a chance to grow without the heavy expectations of a powerhouse team. It’s a new home, a new role, and a new path — one that he can shape with hard work and perseverance.

In the end, getting left behind by Ginebra might just be the turning point Barasi needed. Sometimes, not getting what you wanted leads you exactly to where you belong.