Excitement is brewing as Zavier Lucero gears up to make his highly anticipated PBA debut after being activated by NorthPort on Thursday, just ahead of their Philippine Cup opener against NLEX on Friday at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.

Lucero’s activation comes as a significant milestone, marking his return to professional basketball after being sidelined for more than a year due to an ACL injury sustained during the 2022 UAAP finals while playing for the University of the Philippines.

Despite facing adversity, Lucero’s talent and potential were recognized when he was selected by the Batang Pier as the fifth overall pick in last September’s draft. This move underscored NorthPort’s confidence in Lucero’s abilities and their belief in his ability to make a significant impact on the team.

Standing at 6-foot-7, Lucero brings versatility and athleticism to the court, traits that made him a standout player during his collegiate career. As a member of the UP Fighting Maroons, Lucero left a lasting impression, earning accolades such as the Mythical Five in 2021 and emerging as the second leading scorer of the team with an average of 11.4 points, second only to Carl Tamayo.

Following his draft selection, Lucero inked a two-year contract with NorthPort, solidifying his commitment to the Batang Pier and signaling his readiness to transition to the professional ranks.

Despite the challenges posed by his injury, Lucero remained dedicated to his rehabilitation, undergoing rigorous training and therapy, including a stint in the United States. His perseverance and determination have paid off, culminating in his return to the court and his impending debut in the PBA.