By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
Till your next flight, Cyrus “Skyrus” Baguio.
One of the most decorated athletic guards the PBA has ever seen will now be retiring after 17 colorful seasons.
Baguio, known for his aerial display and hang-time layups, will no longer suit up for the NLEX Road Warriors, the team who picked him up during his last free agency in the PBA.
The NLEX management through Baguio’s long-time representative Danny Espiritu confirmed the decision and was also brought up by NLEX representative Ronald Dulatre where he confirmed Baguio has retired.
Skyrus, who was first drafted by coach Yeng Guiao and the Red Bull franchise during the 2003 PBA draft, was considered as one of the best steals in PBA history when he was selected as the 14th pick.
Baguio was one of the most explosive stars in the amateur division and coach Guiao, seeing him still available in the second round, did not hesitate to grab the opportunity in acquiring his services.
The move paid-off after Baguio led them to the 2005-2006 PBA Commissioner’s Cup and was his first-ever title in the big boys’ league.
Baguio would eventually be traded to Burger King and started jumping ships with the Brgy. Ginebra San Miguel and the Alaska Aces.
Under his belt, Baguio made it to the Mythical Second Team twice, was awarded the 2010 Samboy Lim Sportsmanship, the slam dunk champion in 2004, and was the Most Improved Player during the 2008 season.
