Tags: Basketball, Sports Activities and Competition, UAAP
By Anna Valmero
SAN JUAN, METRO MANILA – Basketball has evolved from pure sport to entertainment but former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) superstar Allan Caidic believes one thing remains consistent: the value of hard work and constant practice.
The basketball legend, who earned the nickname “The Triggerman” for his deadly shooting, urges today’s young basketball stars to stay focused and work hard consistently in getting better at the sport.
Seeing the rise and fall of the PBA over his 16-year stellar career and now as he serves as assistant coach-reserve player to Ginebra Kings since late 2000, Allan says a lot has changed in the country’s professional league.
During his time when he played with or against the likes of four-time MVP Alvin Patrimonio and Samboy”The Skywalker” Lim, he says players then compete based on skills.
Today, he points out that the spotlight focuses more on Fil-American and other mixed-nationality cagers who have the natural advantage in height compared to homegrown players.
“Before, basketball is basketball but now basketball is entertainment,” he says in an interview at the sidelines of the recent Fastbreak charity game for Typhoon Sendong victims, joined by PBA and college stars along with showbiz personalities.
“Basketball now is more of physical thing – power, strength – for players to compete. Noong araw, pagalingan kayo pero ngayon mas scientific ang basketball ,” he says.
Asked what makes him nostalgic about the PBA, he points to the solid fan base enjoyed by every team back then.
“Ngayon, kung nasaan yung player, yun ang team na susuportahan nila,” he adds.“These has its own pros and cons but the important thing is that basketball and the PBA remains alive until today,” added Caidic.
He counts among his biggest accomplishments being able to keep the fans happy and later on, to represent the country four times in Asian games. He was also part of the RP squad that won the gold in the 1985 South East Asian Games.
Caidic also urges today’s players to dedicate 100 percent of their time, passion and skills to be better in the game, recognizing the hazards of injury.
“Just keep on working hard and don’t be contented with what you have achieved. Even if you got championship titles, do not be complacentbecause competition is tough. Getting to the top is easy but staying there is the hardest part,” he says.
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