Ildefonso says he’s good for 2 more years

MANILA, Philippines – Former two-time MVP Danny Ildefonso is at the twilight of a colorful career in the PBA.

Ildefonso learned on Friday that the Meralco Bolts decided to relegate him to the dispersal pool, making him easily the biggest name available to newcomers Kia and Blackwater.

Ildefonso is now looking to become a veteran presence and at the same time teach the young big men the ropes of the PBA, which he dominated in the late 90's to early 2000's.

The 37-year-old veteran was league MVP June Mar Fajardo's personal mentor at Petron/San Miguel before he was left unsigned at the start of last season in a bittersweet ending of a 15-year partnership with the franchise that produced eight championships.

With nothing left to prove, Ildefonso just wants to help either of the two expansion ballclubs.

"Tingin ko kaya ko pang maglaro ng mga two years. Sana mapunta ako sa team na magagamit ako at the same time makakapagturo ako," Ildefonso told Philstar.com right after working out to stay in shape during the off-season.

Ildefonso averaged career lows of 3.1 points and 2.2 rebounds in only 12.3 minutes of playing time with the Bolts last season. He hopes to revive his career on his next team.

"Hindi naman ako naghahangad ng malaking playing time gaya ng dati pero sa tingin ko, I can still be a solid contributor in 15-20 minutes," Ildefonso added.

One of the few players who have invested his money properly in a poultry business and a Petron gas station, Ildefonso said money is not his motivation.

"Kung walang kukuha sa akin sa dispersal draft, yun na siguro yung sign na mag-retire na ako. Ibig sabihin lang nun wala ng may gusto ng serbisyo ko," Ildefonso said.