‘Reformed’ Abueva excited on PBA comeback, set to meet Marcial soon

FILE – Calvin Abueva. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Suspended Phoenix Fuel Masters forward Calvin Abueva couldn’t hide his excitement over the thought that he will be back playing in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) soon.

“I’m finished; we’re just waiting for the results,” Abueva said in Filipino, referring to the sessions with psychologists that serve as his final requirements set by the league.

“I’m just waiting for the results, but I feel that welcome in the PBA again,” he said on Wednesday’s One Sports.

PBA commissioner Willie Marcial declared that Abueva is on the right track in his goal of getting reinstated after his unsportsmanlike actions led to his indefinite ban last season.

Marcial is slated to meet Abueva to discuss the next steps toward the lifting of the suspension.

The former rookie of the year has submitted himself to a drug test and also did community service, before attending sessions with a psychologist.

The last requirement was supposed to be completed early this year, before the COVID-19 pandemic halted Abueva’s progress.

But while his reinstatement has yet to be decided, the change in Abueva’s demeanor has been noticeable.

“I think I have a clearer mind and perspective especially on checking my temper and my attitude to other people,” Abueva said. “I learned that emotions are part of the game, but that I should limit my temper.”Abueva said the suspensions also made him reflect on his career and family life.

“There was a lot of struggle and all I thought was how I can start again and move forward,” the former San Sebastian standout said. “I just imagined that I had an injury that’s why I couldn’t play.”

Abueva admitted getting offers from other leagues, including the Japanese BLeague, but said his focus remains on a PBA comeback.

“I have gotten so many offers, a lot of people have been messaging me,” Abueva said. “I have a big problem in the PBA and I can’t leave just like that. I want my sons to see me play so that they will also follow my footsteps in playing basketball.”