This past Monday, February 12, Mark Barroca was on cloud nine. The 31-year-old guard from Magnolia Hotshots had just renewed vows with wife Ruselle, finally fulfilling their wish of being married inside a church.
But just four days after the rites, Barroca was back to work.
“Delayed [ang honeymoon namin]. Kailangan professional tayo. Delay na lang muna,” said the 5-foot-10 floor general.
“Pagkatapos na lang, kung saan tayo darating sa conference na ‘to.”
The seven-year pro fulfilled his basketball duties commendably, collecting 12 markers, four assists, three rebounds, and two assists to help the Hotshots earn a skid-stopping 96-81 victory over the GlobalPort Batang Pier.
“Sabi nga ni coach na mag-focus. Tapos na yung wedding ko,” said Barroca after the bout.
“So sabi ni coach [Chito Victolero] it’s time na bumalik sa basketball.”
Magnolia are already assured of a quarterfinal spot, and this win gives them a better chance of finishing in the top four. And for Barroca, earning a twice-to-beat edge now serves as their motivation.
“Nandito na kami. Yun siguro motivation namin, na manalo lang kami ng isa against Meralco. Malaking chance na mag-top two kami,” said the native of Zamboanga City, who is averaging 10.8 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 4.3 assists.
“Hopefully makuha muna namin yun sa Saturday (February 24).”
