GIVEN another shot of playing for Gilas Pilipinas, Calvin Abueva vows a brand-new 'Beast' will be on board for the Asian Games-bound national team.
"Ibang Abueva na," he said when asked about donning the national jersey anew after a five-year absence.
He's more matured now, but remains the intense player he's been known for, according to the Magnolia forward.
"Kung ano yung puwedeng itulong sa team, yun ang itutulong (natin). Kung ano yung puwedeng idagdag pa, siguro puwedeng idagdag natin," said the 35-year-old Abueva.
It will be the return stint with Gilas for Abueva since 2018 when he unfortunately, got involved in the infamous Philippine Arena brawl between the Philippines and Australia during the pre-World Cup qualifier.
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He admitted somehow getting affected by the FIBA suspension along with the rest of the players and coaches of both teams involved in the incident.
"Siyempre nung time na yun, na-down din ako," Abueva said.
But with the opportunity knocking at his door again, the former NCAA MVP said a better and wiser Abueva will be on hand.
He's forever grateful to San Miguel Corp. CEO and president Ramon S. Ang and SMC sports director Alfrancis Chua, who's also Gilas team manager, for the chance given him to serve the country again given his advance age and his past.
"(Basta) ang sabi ko ready lang ako Boss," Abueva said of what he told to both top SMC officials. (RG)
