Jimmy Alapag, the PBA’s “Mighty Mouse,” already felt the unmistakable signs a year ago, reason why he asked for just a single-season contract extension from the Talk ‘N Text management.
At 37, Alapag could have stretched his career another two years, considering that he is not suffering from a chronic or debilitating injury. But he opted to quit while the quitting is good.
“Every player knows deep inside him when it’s time to quit,” Alapag said.
“But it’s different with every player. Asi (Taulava), for example, is 41, but he’s still playing great and doesn’t feel like he’s ready to retire soon. Maybe being 6-9 makes a big difference in the wear and tear of the body.”
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In his case, 11 years of playing basketball 100 percent, giving his all game in and game out, has taken its toll.
It’s not only the body that needs to rest but the mind as well, the cager said.
“Basketball is both physically and mentally demanding,” Alapag said, and if he can no longer give the fans the same level of play as he has always given them, then it’s time to hang his jersey.
Alapag joined the Rookie Draft in 2003 and was picked 10th overall. With his talent, skills and excellent work ethic, he was named 2003 Rookie of the Year and in 2011, Most Valuable Player.
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“I know I’ll miss the game, but at the same time, I’m excited with the new challenge of being Gilas assistant coach and Talk ‘N Text team manager.”
One plus factor in Alapag’s present career path is the flexibility in time he now enjoys.
“I definitely have more time with my family and with other things I want to do,” said Alapag, who was described by Talk ‘N Text big boss Manny V. Pangilinan as “the quintessential player who has given our team his best and to us his loyalty, dedication, and service.”
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While Alaska assistant coach Louie Alas expresses his gratitude to those who have been heaping him with glowing compliments for his defensive genius—to which most basketball experts attribute the Aces’ two victories in the Philippine Cup title series—he said the credit should go to head coach Alex Compton.
“Thank you, but it’s coach Alex’s defensive philosophy to pack the paint and apply full-court defense on the opponent. I only implement the strategy. Also a big help was our training camp under Australian coach Rob Beveridge,” said Alas.
Yes, Calvin Abueva’s pesky, tenacious defense is part of the strategy. “Relentless” was the adjective used by Alas to describe Abueva.
“In my book, Chris Banchero, Ping Exceminiano and Abueva are the three best pressure defenders,” he said.