Mac Cardona during the PBA 3×3 Media Day. PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines — Mac Cardona hopes to make the most of his opportunity in his return to the PBA as one of the leaders of the Zamboanga Valientes in the inaugural PBA 3×3 tournament.
Cardona has been out of the PBA since he last played for GlobalPort in 2017 and he couldn’t be more grateful to be back in the league—albeit suiting up in a three-a-side tournament.
“I’m really happy. I’m thankful for Zamboanga Valientes for giving me an opportunity to play again in the PBA,” said Cardona in Filipino on Saturday during media day.
“I’m happy even though it’s just 3-on-3. As long as I’m busy doing something, I’m happy with that.”
Cardona was selected fifth overall by the Air21 Express in the 2005 PBA Draft. He spent 12 seasons in the PBA and won a Philippine Cup title with Talk ’N Text where he was also named Finals MVP.
A one-time Best Player of the Conference, Cardona had the accolades to show but apart from that, he has also made headlines for his troubles off the court.
Eight months ago, Cardona was arrested for serious physical injuries in Mandaluyong stemming from his involvement in a parking lot brawl in Bonifacio Global City.
In 2018, the former La Salle star was also arrested for allegedly injuring his live-in partner. He also suffered a pill overdose in 2016.
The 40-year-old swingman, however, is looking to turn over a new leaf and repay the Valientes for their faith.
Cardona is no stranger to the 3-on-3 stage having played in the Chooks-to-Go league in the past.
He’s banking on his experience to help Zamboanga go far in its campaign.
“The 3-on-3 game is fast paced and your body needs to be well prepared. You have to be in good condition to play here,” said Cardona, who is teamed up with JR Cawaling, Kyle Neypes and Gino Jumao-as.