Taulava isn’t about to fade yet

MANILA, Philippines — Asi Taulava, the first player to play in four different decades in the PBA, is still eager to get going as a baller.

NLEX is actually preparing a different role for Taulava this season – team ambassador and assistant coach – but the 48-year-old veteran seems bent on playing.

Coach Yeng Guiao bared that “The Rock” has been a constant presence in the Road Warriors’ training sessions.

“He already knows there’s a new role waiting for him but he’s just getting ready. Parang ayaw pa niya mag-retire eh, gusto pang maglaro (It seems he doesn’t want to retire yet and intends to continue playing),” Guiao said in NLEX’ Facebook show.

“So we’ll see,” he added.

Guiao noted that Taulava, the 2003 MVP who entered the league in 1999, has kept himself in good shape after their stint in the PBA bubble.

“He’s practicing religiously, doing everything the other players do. Although we already talked to him, ang sinasabi lang ni Asi, he’s still going to be there in case magpalit kami ng isip (we change our minds). If we need a wide body, he’s going to be ready,” said Guiao.

“It’s like we’re keeping him on our back-pocket, andito lang siya, if we want to, say, look for a matchup with June Mar (Fajardo) or (Greg) Slaughter or any of the big guys, he can still be an option,” he added.