Happy Birthday, Kerby Raymundo ( Jan 19 )

Kerby Raymundo Born Jan. 19, 1981, Orion, Bataan, 6-6, Center Red Bull made it clear from the start that Kerby would be the cornerstone of its franchise, even if the prodigious slotman from Bataan failed to suit up in the Thunder's maiden season in the pro league in 2000 because of eligibility problems. The former Letran star finally got to play in 2001, but he never really lived up to the billing, and never really became happy with the role and minutes he got while sharing frontline time with Davonn Harp and Mick Pennisi. in the end, Red Bull's 'future star' will have to spend his future elsewhere: Kerby was traded to Purefoods y in 2002 for a draft pick.  THE move from Red Bull to Purefoods turned out to be a blessing in disguise for Raymundo, who got the minutes and opportunities he couldn't quite enjoy while playing behind Davonn Harp and Mick Pennisi with the Thunder. The 2002 season gave a glimpse of the enormous talent Red Bull saw in the ex-Letran star when it made him its acknowledged franchise player. So much so that he went on to collar a spot in the league's Mythical Second Team at season's end. But the best part of the bargain is, the kid is only 21.