Zavier Lucero is eager to help Magnolia’s seasoned stars Mark Barroca, Paul Lee, Ian Sangalang and Rome dela Rosa win a championship in the PBA this Season 50.
Staying put is a no-brainer for Magnolia star Zavier Lucero.
Even before re-signing with the Hotshots, Lucero bared he had always intended to stay despite rumors that he was set to take his talents overseas during the offseason.
Lucero and Magnolia agreed to a two-year extension last Sept. 13.
“Yes, [signing with Magnolia was an easy decision]. You know, what I’ve said the whole time throughout my negotiations is that the Philippines is where I want to be. I feel at home here,” Lucero told reporters during the PBA Media Day last Sept. 26.
[ALSO READ: Magnolia Hotshots make one last move before PBA Season 50 kicks off, sign Raffy Verano]
There is also unfinished business for the athletic forward here.
The former University of the Philippines standout said he is hell-bent on helping veterans Paul Lee, Mark Barroca, Ian Sangalang and Rome dela Rosa hoist their first championship trophy since the 2018 Governors’ Cup.
“I have unfinished business, so I’m trying to bring a championship not only for myself or Magnolia, but mostly for my teammates who haven't had that glory in a while,” Lucero said.
“Paul, Mark, Ian, Rome, guys who have been in the league for a while. I want to help them get a championship, for sure.”
Zavier Lucero and the rest of the Magnolia Hotshots strike a pose during the PBA Media Day. | Photo: Vlon Bandivas/One Sports
Now under the leadership of new head coach LA Tenorio and with the addition of Javi Gomez de Liaño, Magnolia is aiming for nothing less than the crown — a goal that is not far-fetched, especially with its talented roster, according to Lucero.
“We’re a team that has the talent to do it. Hopefully, we can put it together and finally make a run. It’s been a long time for the franchise,” he said.
[ALSO READ: LA Tenorio on potentially becoming Magnolia player-coach in PBA: 'Depends on management']
That belief will be quickly put to the test when the Hotshots collide with rival Ginebra in a blockbuster Manila Clasico duel in the opener of the league's 50th season Sunday, Oct. 5.
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Like most sportswriters, Jan Ballesteros once dreamed of becoming a professional hooper. But he learned the hard way that it’s not for everyone.
He continues to be involved in the sport he loves, but this time as a member of the PBA Press Corps. Aside from primarily covering the PBA, he is also assigned to cover Gilas Pilipinas.