Calvin Abueva. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—PBA teams need not worry about their meals inside the bubble with a kitchen dedicated to demands during the Philippine Cup, but one club has an advantage when it comes to gastronomic plays.
As Abueva awaits the league’s decision on his reinstatement, he is using his time inside the bubble to help his teammates in one of the best ways he knows how—by preparing the Fuel Master’s post-game meals at Quest Hotel.
“We know that we have some delicious food when we go back to the hotel,” said Phoenix head coach Topex Robinson in Filipino after his team’s 110-105 win over NorthPort Thursday at Angeles University Foundation.
“He’s the one cooking dinner for us and he’s actually excited to do it. In fact everything’s ready for him.”
Abueva already established his cooking chops when he created Dampa ni The Beast in San Juan as his means of income during his suspension.
Although he’s not yet allowed to play in games, Abueva is permitted to practice with the team and he’s brought his high octane energy to the Fuel Masters.
“He brings so much energy in practice, just like what I said he even coaches his teammates,” said Robinson. “I told him ‘just play with them, don’t take my job away.’ But that’s what he does. Everything he can do off the court he’ll do it.”