Marc Pingris on decision to play for Nueva Ecija in MPBL: ‘Gusto ko lang magturo talaga’

Marc Pingris surprised a significant amount of basketball aficionados with his recent decision to unretire and play for the Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards in the upcoming 2021 Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Invitational Cup which is scheduled from December 11 to 23.

The 40-year old former Magnolia Hotshots and Gilas Pilipinas forward, who completely missed the 2020 PBA Bubble in Clark, Pampanga due to a calf injury, announced his retirement from pro basketball earlier this year after a glorious 16-year career in Asia’s first play-for-pay league.

“May swab kami that time. Pupunta dapat ako, pero hindi na ako tumuloy,” recalled Pingris prior to his big announcement.

“Sabi ko kay coach (Chito Victolero), Ok na ako. Huwag na lang. Ibigay na lang natin sa bata. Mas priority na siguro yung bata na ang kukunin nila at mas makakatulong sa team. Yun din ang iisipin mo, yung career din nung bata,” he added.

When pressed to explain the reason behind his move to play in the MPBL, the 9-time PBA champion stressed that it’s all about his desire to share his wealth of knowledge and experience to the younger generation of ballers.

“Magtuturo lang ko. Gusto ko lang magturo talaga,” said Pingris during an interview with SPIN.ph.

“OK naman ako,” was his curt reply when asked if he’s fit to play.

Did he inform the Hotshots about this latest development?

“Hindi pa. Wala naman kasing kumakausap sa akin. Busy silang lahat,” said the 3rd overall pick of the 2004 draft with a big smile.