THE Beast is definitely back.
Calvin Abueva wasted little time in showing his new squad, Phoenix, what he's capable of, playing a pivotal role in the Fuel Masters' 113-107 win over Columbian Dyip in the PBA Governors' Cup.
Abueva hadn't played in the PBA since June after going AWOL with Alaska - and consequently getting indefinitely suspended by his former team before the trade that brought him to Phoenix.
The former NCAA MVP, however, looked like he hasn't missed a step as he finished with 12 points, 13 rebounds, five assists and three blocks including some crucial defensive plays in the endgame.
For Abueva, he's just glad to be able to contribute immediately.
"Buti naman napakita ko kung ano yung mga dapat kong ipakita. It’s my new team eh. Actually sa akin, gagawin ko yung work ko, gagawin ko yung trabaho ko para maipakita ko kung hanggang saan talaga ako dito," said Abueva.
"Ako, it’s a fresh start, new beginning. Gawin ko muna yung trabaho ko bago ko maisip kong ano yung dapat kong gawin sa next level ko," he added.
Abueva's clean slate couldn't be any more fitting as he reunites with coach Louie Alas and Topex Robinson - the two assistant coaches of Alex Compton when he was with Alaska.
Alas vows to keep a long leash on Abueva, as long as it's not directly affecting the team.
"Sabi ko kay Calvin parang barkada lang tayo sa Alaska, kasi assistant coach lang ako. Sabi ko ngayon let me coach you. Hindi ko papapakialaman mga outside activities mo unless lumiliko," said Alas.
"Laruin mo lang gusto mong laruin, dating Calvin Abueva," Alas added.
With that in mind, Abueva promises to repay that trust moving forward.
"Syempre, susuklian ko. Kung ano yung mga ginagawa ko sa court, yun yung binibigay ko rin sa kanya," said Abueva.
"Actually, yung mga offensive rebounds, hustle play, mga hustle na dapat gawin ko sa court sa crucial game, kailangan kong maipakita kung hanggang saan aabot yung kaya ko,” he concluded.
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