KEN Holmqvist is thankful for the opportunity given by TNT to revive his basketball career.
Holmqvist said he is still vying for a spot with the Tropang Giga as a practice player, hoping that his hard work would eventually lead to a place in the active roster.
“I don’t have an update on the status. I’m just hoping for the best. I’m still practicing with them though,” said Holmqvist in a brief chat with SPIN.ph.
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For the meantime, the 6-foot-8 Holmqvist will be playing for Zamboanga Valientes in the Dubai International Basketball Championship.
Holmqvist was drafted by Barangay Ginebra in the first round of the PBA draft in 2021. He did play for the Gin Kings but in the now defunct PBA 3x3 league.
Holmqvist re-emerged in 2023, and vied for a spot with Blackwater under then-head coach Ariel Vanguardia before he disappeared from the basketball scene again.
When asked what he was up to during his time away from basketball, Holmqvist said he came back after resolving 'personal things.' While doing so, Holmqvist said he took on a regular job so that he could earn money in Norway.
“I’ve been dealing with some family situation and stuff. Right now, I’m better and trying to get back,” said the former FEU Tamaraws slotman.
“Just online, with sales,” he said when asked about his job.
While being out of professional basketball, Holmqvist still played on occasion just to break a sweat and keep himself in shape.
“I’ve been playing, trying to get ready, but also working a regular job,” said Holmqvist.
TNT team manager Jojo Lastimosa welcomed Holmqvist's coming stint with the Zamboanga Valientes, saying the latter still needs court time.
“I was looking for a team in PSL that he can play in also. We feel like he needed some competition to gauge where he is,” said Lastimosa.
Holmqvist promised to do what it takes to earn that spot in the PBA.
“I’m going to do my best,” said Holmqvist.
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