Phoenix Super LPG is raring to have Calvin Abueva back as soon as possible, with the PBA season now underway.
The Fuel Masters still have to wait, though, while he completes the requirements set by the Games and Amusements Board to regain his pro license. Abueva had his license revoked following his indefinite suspension in the league.
But even without the 32-year-old, the team has no excuses not to compete in the tournament held inside the Clark bubble.
“Calvin knows that he’s a piece of this team, but he’s not the whole of this team.
“We would love to have him, but it’s also not an excuse for us not to compete without Calvin,” said interim head coach Topex Robinson.
The Fuel Masters proved just that Monday when they put on a blazing performance against Meralco, 116-98.
That’s thanks to the 36-point outing Matthew Wright, as well as the solid contributions of Jason Perkins, Justin Chua, and RR Garcia.
For Robinson, they’re playing with Abueva — who has been suspended for 15 months now — serving as their inspiration.
For the 45-year-old mentor, this is their way of giving back the love and support that the all-around forward shows the team.
“We are doing this for Calvin. He’s really been the best practice player in our team. He’s also one of our coaches right now. I’d never seen him coach a team like that. And sabi ko nga, ‘Huwag mo muna ako tanggalan ng trabaho. Player ka muna, coach muna ako’,” quipped Robinson, who has coached Abueva back to their days in San Sebastian College-Recoletos.
“But again, he’s a blessing to us. He’s in a happy place. He loves to be with us. He loves to be with his team. And we’re excited when the time comes when he’s gonna be with us.”
