Retire or play on? Magnolia expects Pingris decision by next month

MANILA, Philippines, February 20 ------ MAGNOLIA is patiently waiting for Marc Pingris’s decision about his future with the team. Head coach Chito Victolero said Pingris’ status remains unclear for the 2021 season as he continues to undergo rehabilitation from injuries. He, however, said that a decision could be reached next month. “Right now, nagre-recover pa siya. Nagre-rehab siya. And huling usap namin, continue [lang] niya ‘yung ginagawa niya. Siguro by March, baka makabalita na tayo kung ano ang kalagayan ni Marc,” said Victolero.

At the moment, the 39-year-old Pingris has not signed a new deal with Magnolia. His final year of the previous contract saw him miss the bubble campaign due to injuries. He has been under contract with the franchise since 2009. Incidentally, Magnolia beefed up its roster by acquiring Calvin Abueva in a trade with Phoenix on Wednesday. The Hotshots gave up Chris Banchero and two 2020 draft picks, while also receiving a lower first round draft pick (No. 10) from the Fuel Masters. A reunion could be in the offing as Pingris and Abueva once teamed up at Gilas Pilipinas in the 2015 Fiba Asia Championship in Changsha, China.

At the same time, a changing of the guard could be on the horizon with Abueva possibly taking over the role of Pingris as far as being a player that could bring the rebounds and hustle plays for the team. Victolero, however, would rather not speculate about Pingris’ plans, saying the ballclub will leave it up to the Magnolia veteran to decide on his future. “I don’t want to magsalita para kay Ping… He’s been through a lot… Actually, nagkasama pa kami nung bata siya sa SEA Games. Ang sinasabi ko sa kanya, kung ano ‘yung nararamdaman niya, kung ano ang tingin mo makakabuti sayo, we will respect it and try to help also kung ano man ang plano niya," said the Magnolia coach. "Of course, siya pa rin ‘yan. Sa bandang huli, siya pa rin ang magdesisisyon.”

Source: spin.ph