Long-time Meralco import Allen Durham says PBA is ‘my second home’

Former Meralco import Allen Durham talking to Ginebra’s Justin Brownlee during a PBA game. –PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines–Allen Durham is not closing the doors on another stint with the Meralco franchise.

“I’ve got some time on my contract in Japan [but] the PBA is like my second home,” he told reporters on Friday night, shortly after his former club bowed to TNT, 111-104, in the PBA Governors’ Cup.

“The Philippines is like my second home. You’ll never know,” added the American, who now backstops Ryukyu Golden Kings in the B.League.

A former Barako Bull import, Durham figured in four campaigns with Meralco. In three of those stints, he led the club to the Finals and collected Best Import awards along the way

All those tries winning a PBA crown were denied by Barangay Ginebra and their own resident import in Justin Brownlee.

The former rivals also shared a light moment ahead of the Gin Kings’ clash with sister team San Miguel.

“We talked a little bit. I mean, it’s all love with Brownlee,” Durham said of the beloved Ginebra import who also has become his source of torment in the PBA.

“You know, as a competitor, you always want to play against the best—and he’s the best. I got nothing but respect for him, for sure,” he added.

Durham was succeeded by Panamanian ace Tony Bishop Jr. who also steered Meralco to the Finals. The Bolts are now led by KJ McDaniels, an NBA veteran.