Arwind Santos is still willing to return to the Philippine Basketball Association following his stint with the Pampanga Giant Lanterns in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League.
The 42-year-old Santos said his stint in the MPBL is just a mere vacation and he is still open to return to the PBA depending on his condition.
In a shocking development, Santos signed up with the Giant Lanterns, who are owned and coached by Pampanga Governor Dennis Pineda.
Pineda is credited for Santos’ development and success as he mentored and took good care of him when he was still a struggling player in Lubao.
“Yes, of course, but it really depends on me,” Santos told a small group of sportswriters during the launching of the National Basketball Championship Inter-High where he serves as the commissioner.
“Can I still do it? Can I still come back? If I could, then I would return. But if I would enjoy what I’m doing now, both as commissioner of this new league and as a player in the MPBL, then there’s no need to return. But we’re not closing the doors on the possible return.”
If Santos will have it his way, he wants to end his PBA career with the team which somehow cemented his legacy — San Miguel Beer.
Santos won all his nine championships playing for the Beermen where he also had his Most Valuable Player season in 2013.
He is also a member of the All-Defensive Team eight times, a three-time Defensive Player of the Year and a two-time Finals MVP and Best Player of the Conference winner.
“I told my benefactor (Governor Pineda) that the PBA is just here, that’s why I’m keeping myself in shape and getting myself ready,” Santos, who saw action in the Giant Lanterns’ 82-70 win over Marikina in the Northern Division Playoffs, said.
“Boss Danny (Espiritu) told me that he’s waiting for the advice of Governor Pineda, he now plans for everything.”
“I asked him about his plans and even suggested that since he is with Converge, then I’m open for it. It’s up to him.”
Santos said he is really determined to help Pampanga go all the way, which could lead to his possible return to the PBA.
“I still have my personal reasons on why I want to go back to the PBA. I wanted to retire with San Miguel,” Santos said.
“We can’t tell. We don’t know if I can still play for them, at least for several games or win a championship. That would be a fitting exit. Best PBA memories are with San Miguel.”
