Wainwright at 37 still has what it takes

MANILA, Philippines - He still considers himself fit, willing and able, but at 37, Rob Wainwright can’t seem to find a home in the PBA these days.

“The teams won’t consider anyone older than 30,” said Wainwright yesterday.

“And they don’t hold open tryouts like they used to. You need to be invited,” added the 6-foot-5 Fil-American.

Wainwright suited up for five teams (Sta. Lucia, Shell, Coca-Cola, Welcoat/Rain or Shine and Barako Bull) in 11 seasons in the PBA, and helped the Philippine Patriots win the inaugural ABL (Asean Baketball League) crown in 2009.

He’s a force to reckon with inside and out, and for Barako Bull (2010-2011) he averaged 25.1 minutes, 5.9 points and 3.4 rebounds in 12 games.

Wainwright, for his size, owns a deadly touch from the outside, and in his previous season he shot 33 percent from the three-point area.

Not bad for a player who’s supposed to be “too old” to play.

However, as the new season of Asia’s first professional league is about to unfold, the shooting guard and forward is without a team.

He said he’s weighing his options right now.

“I should be leaving for Singapore soon to try and make it to the ABL and play for the Slingers. And there may be offers from Malaysia as well,” said the product of the Solano Community College in Vallejo in California.

“I will test the waters. But right now, I’m semi-retired.”

Thirty-seven may be old but actually not too old in the PBA, especially if you’re in shape.

Currently, according to chief PBA statistician Fidel Mangonon, there are very few players who are older and active.

There’s Marlou Aquino who’s turning 39 next month, then there’s Asi Taulava at 38, and Dennis Espino, also pushing 39.

There are only six players who remained active in the PBA when they reached 40 (all retired of course) – Robert Jaworski, Ramon Fernandez, Abe Guidaben, Yoyoy Villamin, Terry Saldana and Olsen Racela.

“I may be old but I can still play. I mean not just play, but hold my ground. I can still run, dribble the basketball and defend,” said Wainwright.

“I think I still have a couple of good years left. So, we’ll see,” he said.

At 37, Wainwright still deserves a home in the PBA.