Fans remember NBA legends; Rodman reconnects with dad

MANILA, Philippines - It was good as advertised: A fun show, with dunks, booming triples, showtime moves that greats from the NBA and PBA tried their best to execute as if Father Time were still on their side.

But the PLDT All Star Basketball Challenge at the Mall of Asia Arena last Wednesday was not all cage action. It was capped by an emotional sidelight, a sort of “reconnecting” between rebounding great Dennis Rodman and his estranged father, Philander, who’s been based in the country for years.

Long wanting to meet Dennis without success, Philander got his wish when the 6-foot-8 ex-Chicago Bulls got on the mike during a timeout with 16 seconds left and did what was previously unthinkable. 

“I just want to thank all of you for watching this great show. It has been my pleasure being here and for all of you, basketball fans, I want you to know that you have my father here. I’ve never seen him in over 40 years and he’s there right there in that seat,” Dennis said, pointing to Philander who was at the ringside section.

“I can’t explain how I feel. It’s so great. I can’t say anything,” said a surprised and teary-eyed Philander, who previously tried in vain to meet Dennis when he first visited Manila in 2006.

He said Dennis’ action was something that virtually came from left field, considering the colorful cager known for colorful hair dyes and extensive tattoos and body piercing had thrown away his previous attempts.

“I didn’t expect it. I thought it is just another bad trip. But it really, really stunned me. I was really, really surprised,” said Philander, a former US serviceman based in Phl.

“I want him to know I never abandoned him. I did not abandon my son, my family, period. I have 64 books and I am trying to publish one that will explain that I never abandoned him.”

The father and son met again at the hallway after the game, talking briefly and shaking hands in what Philander hopes will be the start of a better relationship.

Rodman scored four points, both from the outside, in the US All Stars’ 112-93 win over the Philippine All Stars.

Jason Williams dazzled the Pinoys with his excellent dribbling skills and laser-guided bombs (26 points on five triples and seven assists) while Scottie Pippen, the main draw of the gig, showed glimpse of his old on-court brilliance with 20 markers and seven feeds.

“This is a once in a lifetime experience for us,” said Phl All Stars playing coach Jerry Codiñera.

“We’ll cherish this memorable experience where we got to play these NBA legends who are our idols,” said Kenneth Duremdes, who fired a game-high 29.