Daniel Rivera, the third first-round pick in the Baloncesto Superior Nacional (BSN) draft, was thrust into action immediately by Gigantes de Carolina/Canóvanas coach Carlos González. Rivera, 24, played 20.7 minutes in 34 regular season games, averaging 9.4 points and 3.3 rebounds, earning him the Rookie of the Year award.
He adapted quickly, forming relationships with teammates, coaches, and management. In the semifinal series against Vaqueros de Bayamón, Rivera scored 10 points with six rebounds and four assists in the first game and seven points with five rebounds in the second.
González gave Rivera the opportunity due to multiple injuries on the team, and Rivera responded positively, playing more minutes than usual for a rookie. Rivera now shares the court with Chad Baker-Mazara, the first pick in the draft, who has also brought energy and freshness to the team.