Mac Tallo’s return to the Philippine Basketball Association wasn’t as smooth as he had hoped.
Unbeknownst to him and Converge, the 29-year-old guard from Cebu had an outstanding penalty to serve after being released by NLEX in 2019.
During that time, Tallo had tested positive for a banned substance and was supposed to serve a six-month suspension.
However, as he had already been released by the Road Warriors, he was never notified of the suspension.
For weeks, Tallo had countless sleepless nights, waiting for the PBA’s verdict.
Finally, on Friday, he was cleared to play for the FiberXers.
“Siyempre, sobrang saya ko,” Tallo told Tiebreaker Times. “It’s been four years bago ako nakabalik sa PBA. Akala ko talaga hindi na ako makakabalik.
“Since six years old ako, this was my dream tapos ngayon makakasama ko pa ulit si Coach Aldin (Ayo). Talagang nagpapasalamat ako sa PBA at sa Converge, kayla Gov. Archen (Cayabyab), at kay Boss Jacob (Lao) na nakabalik ako.”
It was Ayo who believed that Tallo deserved a second chance. During Ayo’s time with Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3×3, Tallo was the first player on his wishlist to serve as the face and anchor of his team.
For three years, Tallo worked his way back, eventually earning the distinction of being the country’s top 3×3 player. Spida-Mac was back.
However, in early October, with the country’s hopes of making it to the Olympic Qualifying Tournament fading, a mutual agreement was reached between Chooks-to-Go and Tallo, which allowed him to return to 5-on-5 basketball.
Tallo remains forever grateful to Chooks-to-Go, owner Ronald Mascarinas, and its vice president Mel Macasaquit.
“This would not have been possible without the trust of Boss Mel and Boss Ronald of Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas. They have given me the confidence that I have right now. I’m eternally grateful.”
On Wednesday, Tallo embarks on a new journey—a return to 5-on-5 basketball, with the Blackwater Bossing as their opponents.
Excited about what lies ahead, Tallo is tempering expectations, knowing that he has to re-adjust to 5-on-5 basketball after dedicating his life to 3×3.
“Don’t expect too much from me. It’s been four years since I played 5-on-5. I’m still adjusting to my new role and surrendering again to the coach’s system.”
