INQUIRER Sports

MANILA, Philippine – Even though he’s retired from professional basketball, Vergel Meneses makes sure he keeps himself fit enough to play exhibition games.

The 6-foot-3 Meneses carried the moniker “The Aerial Voyager” for his acrobatic and moves to the basket, making him an explosive offensive threat reminiscent of Samboy “The Skywalker” Lim, who he succeeded in the amateur leagues playing for Swift.

The 10-time PBA All-Star played for several teams but was most successful with Sunkist, wining the coveted Most Valuable Player award in 1995 when he led the RFM franchise to a near grand slam – copping two of out three conferences.

Even after announcing his retirement in 2006, Meneses said it was important for him to stay fit because he always gets invited to play exhibition matches. He recently saw action in the ASEAN veterans basketball tournament held in Marikina City.

“Not just because I’m out of PBA, I’ll let my body loosen up and get back into shape drastically when there’s an exhibition game. I really discipline myself and be strict with my diet,” he said.

Though not a strict vegetarian, Meneses said he limits himself to a cup of rice every meal and eats a lot of fruits and vegetables.

“I always set my target like when it comes to my weight and when I achieve it I stop then just repeat my routine,” said Meneses, who kept himself busy with various businesses after his professional career.

Prior to the PBL and PBA, Meneses played for Jose Rizal College (now Jose Rizal University) in the NCAA.

The league’s 1993 Most Improved Player and four-time PBA All-Star Game Most Valuable player feels overwhelmed that basketball fans still recognize him even though the league has produced many talented players.

During his heyday, Meneses, who won back-to-back slam dunk contests when he entered the PBA in 1992, was known as a go-to guy who isn’t afraid to take crucial shots when the game is on the line.

“I hope they still remember me as someone who has the will to win especially during crunch time,” he said.