SINO ang mag-aakala na aabot sa semifinal round ng PBA Commissioner’s Cup ang Air21 Express? Aba’y muntik pa nga silang makapasok sa Finals for the first time sana. Hindi maitatanggi na isa sa dahilan ng pamamayagpag ng Air21 si Paul Asi Taulava. Pinangunahan ng 41-taong gulang na beterano ang kanyang koponan sa pinakamagandang pagtatapos nito sa pro league. Nakausap ni Bandera correspondent Eric Dimzon si Asi at ito ang kanyang sinabi.
How does it feel that Air21 has made the semis?
It feels good. But in a way, we are not satisfied. We will continue to play hard. We are happy to know that we have the never-say-die attitude as well. We have had a lot of games that we were down. But we always managed to come back. As long as we have that, we will go far.
What do you think is needed for Air21 to make it all the way to the Finals?
We should never have letdowns.
What did coach Franz Pumaren do right that made this team click?
He tells us to work. And we know when to get serious. It is a different Air21 when Coach Franz came in. All the players are warriors. Everyone wants to prove something.
What else do you want to prove out there?
I am always out there to prove that I can still compete with the rest of the players.
At this stage in your career are you still craving for another MVP award?
What I am craving is a championship for my team. I missed out a lot of championships when I was younger. My head was not screwed on then. Now, I am fixing all the things that I did when I was young.
How do you keep your game at such a competitive level?
I hate my offseason (laughs). It consists of at least three hours of workout with my personal trainer. I put so much pressure on myself during offseason. I really try to keep myself fit.
Has retiring crossed your mind?
I’ve always told myself this. If I can’t get up in the morning to do my training, that’s the time I will retire. If I can get up in the morning and put in the time, I’m good.
What advice can you give to those who dream of having a good and long career in the PBA?
I am just really one of the lucky ones. There was a time when I played well and it got to my head. I’ve had my share of all-night-long parties.
But during the latter part of my career, I became more dedicated. I try not to do extra-curricular activities. I now live a pretty boring life (laughs). I am thankful to Boss Lito (Alvarez) for bringing me to Air21 and giving me a second chance.
I try to give back the favor by playing well.
( Photo credit to inquirer news service )