SEAN Chambers is back in the country to visit former team Alaska, reunite with former teammates, and put in a little work.
Chambers, who played for the Uytengu franchise during its glory years from 1989 to 2001, was at ringside to watch the Aces' quarterfinal against second-seed Meralco in the PBA Governors' Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Chambers said his return to the Philippines wasn’t just any visit, like in the previous times he went back here.
“I came back to work with Alaska and kinda work with the team. It gives them knowledge and history about our culture when we were playing in our heyday,” said Chambers. “Basically, whenever I can come back, I come back to support the team.”
The 54-year-old Chambers attended Saturday’s practice on the eve of the quarterfinal match against Meralco.
“I was able to get up and work with the guys, work with the coaching staff. I’m just enjoying my time here,” said Chambers, who won his lone Best Import award in 1996 when the Milkmen ruled the Governors' Cup to complete a grand slam.
Aside from a visit to the team’s practice, Chambers said there will be a reunion among Alaska greats of his era during his 10-day stay.
“We are going to be meeting with the old guys, get to see my brothers, Johnny (Abarrientos), Jojo (Lastimosa), Bong (Hawkins), Poch Juinio, Jeffrey (Cariaso). Those are my brothers. We’ve been through so many battles and wars together. It’s always great to come back and spend time with them,” said Chambers.
Chambers is also happy to see Cariaso take the role at Alaska, saying his former teammate is doing all the right things.
“I really like what he is doing. You got to change not much of the culture but you are changing the voice piece of the culture. Jeff had to come in in the middle of the year, put on his message, and taken over and he is doing a great job with a bunch of new guys as well,” said Chambers.
While attending the PBA game, Chambers still attracts a lot of photo requests from fans, which is very appreciative of to the country he calls home.
“I’m beyond grateful. I’m humbled by this experience. I’m humbled to be here and come back home and still receive the love from the Philippines. It’s amazing,” said Chambers.
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