BEAU Belga achieved a career milestone late in his PBA career by becoming the latest member of the league's 5,000-point club.
The 38-year-old Rain or Shine big man reached the mark during the team's 99-81 win over guest team Eastern last Dec. 4 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Belga scored his 5,000 career points when he drove to the basket and got a bonus foul from Ramon Cao with 30 seconds left in the third quarter.
In doing so, the product of Philippine Christian University became the 98th player to achieve the feat in the 49-year history of Asia's first ever play-for-pay league and the 13th among the active players, according to PBA chief statistician Fidel Mangonon III.
He is only the third player to attain the milestone in a Rain or Shine jersey after Jay Washington and Gabe Norwood.
Sponsored content: On Wednesday night at halftime of the Rain or Shine-Magnolia Commissioner's Cup tussle, Belga was formally recognized with the achievement after being presented with a specially-crafted plaque by Commissioner Willie Marcial.
Joining him and Marcial at centerstage of the Ninoy Aquino Stadium were Rain or Shine team governor Atty. Mamerto Mondragon and Magnolia counterpart Rene Pardo.
Incidentally, Belga began his career with the Purefoods franchise as the team's no. 7 overall pick during the 2008 draft. He then briefly suited up for the Air21 team before landing at Rain or Shine in the 2010-11 season.
The 6-foot-5 native of Gubat, Sorsogon won two championships with the Welcoat franchise and is a member of the league's 2,000-defensive rebound club. (RG)
