Phoenix forward Calvin Abueva. PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—Calvin Abueva proved in the previous conference that he’s a changed man.
Shedding his rough guy image, Abueva was even nominated for the league’s Sportsmanship Award after the 2020 PBA Philippine Cup and the man known as The Beast is ready to not only continue his new image but also repay Phoenix for its trust.
The Fuel Masters rewarded Abueva with a three-year extension, sealing him for the foreseeable future in what would be the franchise’s timetable for a potential championship run, something the 33-year-old birthday boy wants to bring to the club.
“I thank the team for giving me one more chance,” said Abueva in Filipino as per the league’s official website. “I hope we can win a championship in the next three years.”
Abueva was suspended from June 2019 to October 2020 due to a physical altercation with former TNT import Terence Jones and a verbal spat against Maika Rivera, Bobby Ray Parks Jr.’s girlfriend.
Those incidents, however, have been left in the past as Abueva remains firm on his quest to help the Fuel Masters.
His return to the league in October helped Phoenix to a semifinal finish in the PBA bubble in Clark.
Despite being away from the game for more than a year, Abueva put up stellar numbers of 15.4 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 5.2 assists in the 12 games he played.
Abueva’s rejuvenated play earned him a spot in the Elite 5 team, a special distinction for the best players of the condensed Philippine Cup.
His inclusion into the select team also motivated Abueva to continue what he had in the previous conference.
“I always pray that I can improve myself.” said Abueva.