Jopia has signed a two-year deal with the Bossing to become the PBA ballclub’s fourth rookie signing. He was the third-round pick, 26th overall in the recent draft but had to finish his commitment with the Red Lions.
That stint ended with San Beda capturing the NCAA Season 99 crown following a 2-1 finals series win over Mapua on Sunday.
With his 6-foot-8 frame, Jopia will give Blackwater additional ceiling in a frontline led by Troy Rosario and Ato Ular.
Jopia is in the same boat as James Kwekuteye and Archie Concepcion, who signed with the ballclub in the middle of the conference at the end of their stint in the MPBL. Second pick Christian David has been playing for the Bossing since the start.
Prior to being drafted by Blackwater, Jopia gained PBA experience after he saw action for TNT in the ‘On Tour’ series that coincided with the collegiate preseason.
Jopia was the leading shot blocker of the Red Lions during the recent season with 1.36 and the second leading rebounder with 6.95.
Jopia could play for Blackwater as early as Friday when it faces NLEX at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.