Nothing is cast in stone yet, but Renaldo Balkman vowed his readiness to suit-up anew for the San Miguel Beermen should the squad request his services for the upcoming 2019 PBA Commissioner’s Cup next month.
This was the assurance of the 6-foot-8 import after he showed up to support his former team during Game 1 of their 2019 PBA Philippine Cup best-of-seven semifinals series, Saturday night at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The Beermen eventually won the game, 100-88, much to the delight of Balkman, who showed up donning a throwback Penny Hardaway Orlando Magic jersey.
Asked if his PBA comeback meant playing for the Beermen in the upcoming mid-season conference for some unfinished business, Balkman only answered that he hoped that he would indeed get a call.
“It’s up in the air right now. I don’t know. I don’t know if I play yet but I just got some things to do here in the Philippines. Let’s see what’s next for me. I’m just here, working out, getting my body back healthy and staying in shape for the call,” said Balkman, who has played twice for the San Miguel franchise.
“Whatever that call is, I’ll be ready.”
Balkman’s last stint for SMB came last year. It ended on a losing note, as the then-reigning champion Beermen were dethroned by the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, with his good friend Justin Brownlee leading the way on his way to a Best Import citation.
“We’ll see what happens. Whatever happens, it’s always gonna be showtime for me.”
The 34-year old Puerto Rican is also coming off a foiled campaign with the San Miguel Alab Pilipinas in the ASEAN Basketball League. The Philippine bet also surrendered its throne with a 0-2 quarterfinal series loss to Hong Kong Eastern.
At the end of the day, Balkman said that the Philippines will always have a special place in his heart, just like San Miguel – whom he treats his family, regardless if he is to serve as their reinforcement in the Commissioner’s Cup or not.
“You know I just gotta support my guys. I’ve been with these guys for a while. There’s just a personal level on us. Those are my brothers so no matter what, I’d go,” he said. “That’s why I’m coming back to support. Like I said, I never left.
“I’ve been here the whole time, working out.”
