PHOENIX is taking it one step at a time.
The Fuel Masters are more than grateful that key player Calvin Abueva was allowed by the PBA hierarchy to join the team even as a practice player just before the restart of the season's Philippine Cup in Pampanga.
Interim coach Topex Robinson said it's a blessing having "The Beast' around even only in scrimmages and not in actual games yet.
He's actually tempering expectations as Abueva's indefinite suspension hasn't been formally lifted yet by the Commissioner's Office.
"We are just happy that he will be able to join us in practice," said Robinson, who entered the Clark bubble together with Abueva on Tuesday night.
"We will take this win for now."
Abueva and the Fuel Masters found a reason to be optimistic after Commissioner Willie Marcial allowed the 32-year-old eccentric forward to enter the bubble following a lunch meeting on Tuesday.
Abueva's participation, at this time, is only limited to participating in team training and 5-on-5 scrimmages.
In light of the event, Abueva and team management also paid a visit to the Games and Amusements Board (GAB) office in Makati to inquire about the requirements needed for the native of Angeles City to acquire a new professional license.
GAB revoked Abueva's previous license following the indefinite suspension meted on him by the league in June of last year.
But while the positive signs are beginning to manifest, Robinson says it is not time to celebrate yet.
For the moment; he's just happy seeing his player and friend once again enjoying the game he loves most.
"Calvin is in his happy place playing the game that he loves in the place where he grew up," said Robinson, a former PBA player and head coach of Lyceum.
"He's just blessed to be here."
Get more of the latest sports news & updates on SPIN.ph