PBA Legends invade Singapore

MANILA, Philippines - The PBA Legends, headed by four-time MVP Alvin Patrimonio, rookie MVP Benjie Paras, Jerry Codiñera and Nelson Asaytono, will bring their act to Singapore as they hold a series of exhibition games in the event dubbed the Asia Tour Singapore set Oct. 10-12 at Pasir Ris Sports Hall. 

The event is organized by the Singapore-based Red Card Sports and Entertainment.

Atoy Co, Ronnie Magsanoc, Marlou Aquino, Bal David, Noli Locsin and Vince Hizon, a last-minute replacement for Johnny Abarrientos, will join the star-studded squad, which will also conduct clinics for kids. They will also hold a media and meet-and-greet day capped by a gala dinner where fans will have a chance to dine in with the former cage stars.

“This is our first time to venture into basketball and we’re excited to bring in some of the Philippines’ basketball legends,” said R. Sasikumar, managing director of Red Card Sports and Entertainment in yesterday’s event launch at the Gerry’s Grill on Tomas Morato, Quezon City.

Chino Trinidad will join the team as host.

Patrimonio, Codiñera, Paras, Asaytono and Hizon, who graced the launch, all vowed to make the event memorable and fun-filled.

“We’re going to Singapore to entertain the fans as well as bring back to them what we’ve achieved through basketball by teaching kids there,” said Codiñera, now the coach of the Arellano U Chiefs in the NCAA.

“We’re going to play definitely, but be ready with the ambulance,” said Paras in jest.

“It’s a golden opportunity for us to interact with our countrymen in Singapore and I’m personally excited to go there,” said Patrimonio.

The event is sponsored by official restaurant partner O’Leary’s, official apparel Team Sure Win, official hotel Park Royal, Gerry’s Grill, Lechonation, Gilas Sports and official media support partner S3P.

The PBA Legends have played exhibition games around the world the past two years, including Saudi Arabia, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, the United States and Qatar.