Mark Caguioa to play for one more season for Ginebra

Ginebra veteran Mark Giongco. PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines — Mark Caguioa will be back for one more year for Barangay Ginebra.

Caguioa on Monday brushed off retirement talks after announcing during the Gin Kings’ victory party and fans day that he is returning to play in his 19th season in the PBA.

“Should I play for one more year?” Caguioa said, teasing the crowd, who serenaded him with loud cheers.

“Coach Al pulled me aside, sinabi niya sa akin na (and he told me) he’s gonna give me one more year,” added Caguioa, pertaining to Ginebra governor and San Miguel Corporation sports director Alfrancis Chua.

The 40-year-old guard has compiled quite the resumé after being selected third overall by Ginebra in the 2001 PBA Draft with eight championships, an MVP award and three Best Player of the Conference plums among his long list of accolades.

Caguioa’s minutes have diminished over the years but his impact on the team on and off the court as its heart and soul remains invaluable.

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Barring any health issues, it doesn’t seem like Caguioa is hanging up his sneakers in the near future.

“At 40, I guess [I can play for] as long as I can. My body is not hurting. I feel like I can still go for 10 years or something like that. I still feel good.”