Veteran center, Marcus Douthit played hoops in different parts of the world, but nothing compares to be doing it in front of his countrymen.
Douthit, who acquired Filipino citizenship five years ago and has been a vital part of the national team’s growth ever since, shared playing at home is still different compared to playing overseas.
“It’s amazing to play here. It’s always amazing to play in front of the fans. There’s nothing like it. Throughout my career, I’ve been to different places, and this is different,” the 34-year-old big man said.
“This is my favorite place to play in. Nothing compared to when we played at the MOA Arena, but at the end of the day, it is always a blessing to play in front of everyone.”
Douthit played in the 2011 and 2013 FIBA Asia Championship for Gilas Pilipinas, and was part of the build-up for the 2014 World Cup. He played as an import for the Air21 Express in during the 2011-2012 season. For the Blackwater Elite, Douthit averaged 22 PPG, 14 RPG, 3.8 APG, and 3.1 BPG, leading the squad to three wins.
“It’s similar to the first because I was on a team that didn’t have much experience. But it’s always fun, it’s always a challenge, and we ended the conference on a good note, so these guys have something to look forward to,” he said.
Douthit suited up as a replacement for the injured Chris Charles, a veteran of the ASEAN Basketball League. Furthermore, Blackwater chose to keep Douthit after his impressive play, and the Gilas stalwart is thankful for the chance to get back in top form.
He added that he is open to playing in the third conference as long as there is no conflict. Douthit will be part of the Gilas’ SEA Games basketball team along with the country’s promising collegiate stars.
“I am definitely in shape, and I want to play in the third conference if available. We will see what happens.”
