TO be inducted in the PBA’s Greatest Players alongside the likes of former San Miguel players June Mar Fajardo and Nelson Asaytono was such an honor for Danny Seigle.
The former Beerman was part of the next 10 greatest players that were formally inducted on Friday night during the 50th anniversary celebration at the Solaire Resort North in Quezon City.
READ: Past is past as Asaytono, Hawkins finally take place among PBA 50 Greatest
“It’s a privilege to be with such a great company,” said Seigle. “I’m coming in with June Mar Fajardo, who is probably the best player. He is a GOAT. Of course, Jeff Cariaso, who was a mentor to me, and Nelson ‘The Bull.’ So it’s a great privilege.”
Seigle revealed that Asaytono is actually the favorite player of his older brother and fellow former PBA player Andy Seigle.
“Actually, [he is] my older brother’s favorite player. He’s an incredible player. I got to play with him for only one conference and he is our idol,” said the 48-year-old Seigle.
An eight-time PBA champion, Seigle had several accomplishments that include being a four-time Finals MVP, three-time Mythical First Team, and two-time Best Player of the Conference before retiring in 2017.
The 6-foot-6 Seigle also revolutionized the small forward position since he entered the league as a direct hire in 1999.
Seigle said he had just arrived in Manila when he learned about being named as one of the newest Greatest Players. He was also scheduled to go to Japan, but had to rebook his flight to attend the festivities.
“I just gad back to Manila and my good friend, Quinito Henson, called me up and gave me the good news,” said Seigle.
“I’m supposed to be in Japan right now. He (Henson) was like, ‘you have to cancel your fight, you have to go,” he added.
Seigle said he is aware about conversations that he should have been included in the 40 greatest players named in 2015. But more than being finally in the exclusive group, Seigle said he was more excited in meeting his contemporaries that he hasn’t seen in quite a while.
“I was hoping. I was praying. I know there was a lot of conversation about not making the top 40. But I’m here in the present. Very happy now. I was happy.”
“Actually, I was excited for this night to see some people I haven’t seen in so long. Some incredible people. It’s been seven years since I’ve been around so I’m really forward to this night,” said Seigle.
Seigle was humble with his accomplishments.
“We were just carrying the torch for them,” said Seigle, referring to the past players. “They kind of raised the bar for us. Just like them, I want to have an impact on the game. I want to come in and make sure and let younger players know that taller ones could play inside and outside.”
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