Hector Calma made a rare public appearance as he joined his fellow legends in the PBA Homecoming ahead of the league's 50th season Saturday, Oct. 4.
When fans talk about the best pure point guards in the PBA, Hector Calma is one of the few names that pop up.
It’s not exactly surprising, as Calma helped San Miguel claim a Grand Slam in 1989 with his wits and stellar playmaking.
But one hardly sees guards of his caliber nowadays in a league dominated by scorers like two-time Asia’s Best Point Guard Jayson Castro.
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The change in landscape probably comes from the fact that players are faster and bigger now, according to Calma.
“Now, 'yong mga players, they’re faster [and] bigger. Before, hindi naman ganoon kalalaki ang mga players natin,” Calma said with a smile.
"It’s good for the league," the pint-sized guard added.
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When asked if there’s a contemporary baller whose play reminds him of his, the soft-spoken legend gave an ambiguous answer.
“Marami, eh. I think they have their own style ng games nila. I don’t know, hindi ko ma-compare ang sarili ko sa mga bata,” said the nine-time PBA champion.
Asked if there is anyone who is the closest, the man dubbed as "The Director" said it was former Ginebra star and now Magnolia head coach LA Tenorio.
“I think, si LA siguro. Idol ko 'yon,” Calma said with a smile.
The 65-year-old joined his fellow legends Marlou Aquino, Atoy Co, Alvin Patrimonio, Jerry Codinera and Benjie Paras, among others, in the league's homecoming event on the eve of the golden season’s opening.
“It’s nice to see the old teammates, new players and mga incoming, future players natin,” Calma said.
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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.