OKINAWA — Joseph Eriobu has successfully returned to the 5-on-5 game.
The former PBA 3×3 star has been signed to a one-season deal by Magnolia, as announced by his agent Marvin Espiritu on social media Tuesday evening.
This development is undoubtedly an answered prayer for Eriobu, who has consistently expressed his desire to rejoin regular PBA competitions after participating in the halfcourt league.
The former Mapua Cardinal player last competed in the league in 2019 with Blackwater before joining Hong Kong Eastern in the ASEAN Basketball League (ABL) later that year, following his release by the Elite.
The journey back to the PBA became quite prolonged, exacerbated by the pandemic. A glimmer of hope emerged when the PBA 3×3 was introduced in 2021.
(C) PBA Images
Initially not picked by Sista, the left-handed Fil-Nigerian forward joined Purefoods before the inaugural season, eventually becoming a prominent figure for the Tender Juicy Titans.
He quickly established himself as one of the country’s premier 3×3 players, earning a spot on the Philippine team that secured fourth place in the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup 2022.
Subsequently, Eriobu’s endeavors earned him a call-up by the Hotshots during the 2023 PBA On Tour, an opportunity he undoubtedly capitalized on.
(C) PBA Images
During the tour, he maintained an average of 10.4 points on 61.5-percent shooting from the field, significantly contributing to his team’s flawless record of 11 wins in the preseason tournament.
Furthermore, the 31-year-old showcased his ability to bolster Magnolia’s frontcourt, serving as a reliable backup for Calvin Abueva.
Hence, his signing for the upcoming 2023-24 season, slated to commence in October, was hardly surprising, given his impressive performance in the On Tour.
