Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines–Chris Tiu was back in the PBA on Sunday three months after announcing his retirement from basketball.
But it’s not the kind of return one would think of as Tiu was in street clothes and he sat behind his former team Rain or Shine’s bench at Mall of Asia Arena.
it’s my first time to watch a game live. I mean, even on TV I don’t get to watch because contrary to what people think, I’m even busier now,” Tiu told reporters.
“So I haven’t really been following.. watching the games. But I follow the news and I text with coach Caloy and some of the players every so often.”
The 33-year-old Tiu wears many hats but he still took time to support the Elasto Painters, the only franchise he played for in the PBA.
And Rain or Shine made sure to greet Tiu the best way it can after it rolled past NorthPort to enter the 2019 PBA Philippine Cup semifinals.
“I promised them I’d come and support. So Sunday was a perfect time because I didn’t have much to do. I told my kids and my wife that I’m just going to support the team and it’s a crucial quarterfinal match,” Tiu, who played six seasons in the PBA, said.
“So I’m happy to be here and I’m happy to share this winning moment with them. Hopefully, they get through to the semis and make the finals and win the championship.”
Tiu hopes Sunday won’t be the last time he shows up and catches the game live this conference.
“As long as my schedule permits, why not?”