Ben Mbala wanted no more drama
Back in 2015, Ben Mbala, who had just transferred from Southwestern University to De La Salle University two years prior, was about to end his residency and suit up for the Green Archers for the 78th season of the UAAP. However, the Cameroonian student-athlete was caught playing in an unsanctioned league in General Santos. As a result, he was penalized by having to sit out one more year.
Two years later, Mbala’s eligibility for the 81st season of the league was once again put into question. This time, with the UAAP having been able to adapt to the K-to-12 program, the “five seasons for seven years” rule for student-athlets will once again be implemented after two years. According to reports, the 22-year-old big man graduated high school in 2011.
Instead of waiting on the eligility meeting for incoming student-athletes next year, Mbala decided that he did not want to enter another risk.
In a tell-all interview with the morning edition of CNN Philippines’ Sportsdesk, the two-time UAAP Most Valuable Player bared why he decided to join Mexican club team Fuerza Regia de Monterrey in the Liga Nacional de Baloncesto Profesional.
EXCLUSIVE: Basketball superstar @benmbala says his decision to leave La Salle is final https://t.co/0JKC6FSTrY pic.twitter.com/gehzWOxHtr
— CNN Philippines (@cnnphilippines) December 22, 2017
“It all started when my last year, things were not really sure,” Mbala told host Andrei Felix. “With the rules that have been coming out, I had to talk to my family and the people at school.
“I felt that it’s time for me to get to the next level instead of wasting one year not doing anything.”
According to Philippine Star’s Quinito Henson, Mbala left Manila last Saturday, December 16. Though playing in Mexico was not in his plans, this was the first opportunity that came by.
“I feel like it’s time to get to the next level. It’s been a long time for me to stay in college and I feel like it’s time for another level,” said Mbala, who averaged 26.0 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks during UAAP Season 80.
“It wasn’t always the plan [to go to Mexico]. Since all the leagues all over the world are about to end, I had to look somewhere and get more experience and see how it goes — how I can gel with a pro team and see what I’m really capable of,” he added.
“I’ve been playing college for a long time. Mexico was there, the offer was there so I decided to grab it.”
Mbala though admitted that it was hard for him to leave La Salle. Through the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, the community was always there for him.
“Before making my decision, I talked to coach Aldin [Ayo] and some of the team. Of course, I had to explain my side of the story. I’m lucky that La Salle is always understanding and never blamed me for anything,” he recalled.
“They told me to decide what is best for me and my future.
“La Salle is like a family. They’ve been there for me since day one when I wasn’t playing. Even when I got suspended, they still got my back,” he reflected.
“Leaving La Salle is really hard but I know the people there understand. I decided to try my luck in the pro league and see how it goes. I know my teammates, coaches, and management will understand and support me.”
Mbala made his debut Thursday evening, scoring nine points and grabbing five rebounds off the bench during Fuerza Regia’s 87-69 win over Panteras. So far, the import is adjusting well.
“Everything is going fine. The guys really welcomed me the right way and they are very understanding patient with me, especially I’m the new face. They are giving me a lot of advices,” he shared.
Even with a new chapter opening for him, Mbala is not closing his doors on a return. It won’t be for La Salle though but maybe as an import in the PBA.
“I love the Philippines. It’s not like I’m leaving the Philippines forever,” Mbala beamed.
“I will visit from time to time. If I get an offer to play in the Philippines, why not? I’ll grab it!”
La Salle has also not closed its doors on one of the greatest foreign student-athletes to grace the UAAP. If ever he decides to finish up his studies, the school is willing to continue his scholarship.
