Mark Barroca could end career as PBA’s new ‘Iron Man’
Mark Barroca. PBA IMAGES
PASSI CITY, ILOILO—The end of LA Tenorio’s remarkable “Iron Man” streak has put the spotlight on Mark Barroca to try and post a new mark on durability.
But the Magnolia guard isn’t too focused on trying or even pushing himself too much on reaching the Barangay Ginebra’s record of playing 744 straight games.
“I have no desire of breaking LA’s record,” Barroca said during the PBA All-Star festivities in this city where he will play for Team Scottie against Team Japeth on Sunday at City of Passi Arena.
Barroca currently has 541 consecutive appearances since being taken first overall by the Purefoods franchise in the 2011 draft. His durability has been widely praised, and the cerebral playmaker is not about to slowing down.
That’s why a lot see Barroca with the best chance of surpassing Tenorio’s record that came to an end last week when he opted to sit out Ginebra’s game against Meralco due to a groin injury. Tenorio recently went under the knife.
“I thought before that I was the only player who hadn’t missed a game. Turns out LA did the same,” said Barroca. “That’s why I’m happy to be in the same company with LA.”
When the 36-year-old Barroca can break the mark will depend on the PBA schedule, however.
The PBA will be reduced to a two-conference format after this season, before reverting back to the traditional tri-tournament setup in 2024-25.
“If I could reach that record, it’s going to be a bonus for me,” Barroca said. “I will just keep on going as long as my body can handle it.”
