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Dondon Hontiveros is back to regional-based basketball after almost two decades in the PBA.
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By Kevin Estrada
TAGUIG -- If there was one player in Philippine basketball who knows on playing in a home-and-away format, it has to be Dondon Hontiveros.
After his storied 17-year career in the PBA ended last month, the 40-year old gunner will be back in his roots when he will suit up for ABL's Alab Pilipinas in the upcoming season during its launch earlier today at the Fort.
Hontiveros is no stranger playing raucous opposition crowds, as his rise to basketball stardom begin with the Cebu Gems in the old MBA where he played his first two years as a pro.
"Nag-start ako sa ganun, so I'm really excited. Opportunity for me to play for our kababayans," the Cebuano Hotshot said on playing in the ABL as fans clamor for his inclusion to the lone Pinoy side.
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| Hontiveros always send the Cebu Coliseum crowd on its feet with his stellar play while wth the Gems (Dondon Hontiveros' Facebook page) |
In his storied career with the Gems, he led them to their lone appearance in the National Finals in 1999, where he engaged in a shootout with former Manila gunner and current Alaska coach Alex Compton in the fifth game of the series.
Despite his age, he added that he cannot left basketball behind.
"It's been my life. And to be given the opportunity to play the game that you really . When I talked to Charlie [Dy] and Jimmy [Alapag], I really felt na I can help the team whatever way. That excites me," Hontiveros added, saying nothing but praises to the Mighty Mouse during their training sessions.
However, he admits that he saw Bobby Ray Parks' natural leadership when asked about willing to take the role on being coach on the floor.
"If I had to, I would do. Pero nakita ko yun kay Bobby Ray Parks. He's a natural leader. He's vocal and he's experienced in ABL. I'm excited to help him also," he commented.
Follow him on Twitter: @KevinLEstrada
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