Yancy De Ocampo may be a reserve but among San Miguel Beermen players, he has the most extensive championship experience.
De Ocampo is an owner of nine titles, the second most among active players. He even came close to winning the Grand Slam three years ago.
The 2002 PBA top draft pick was part of the San Mig Coffee squad which won three straight championships in the 2013 Governors Cup, 2014 Philippine Cup and 2014 Commissioner’s Cup.
But he was traded midway through the 2014 Governors’ Cup which the Mixers also topped to complete their Grand Slam run.
“Pagka-opening halos ng tournament, na-trade ako. Bale nakakailang game pa lang, na-trade ako sa GlobalPort,” De Ocampo shared to InterAksyon.
But as fate would have it, the 6’9″ center is on the verge of finally winning the Grand Slam with the Beermen.
He has only played limited minutes during the Commissioner’s Cup finals, serving as a backup of three-time Most Valuable Player June Mar Fajardo. But he doesn’t mind his role as long as he can contribute.
“Whatever it takes, gagawin naming lahat para makuha yun,” De Ocampo said.
“Lagi akong nasa bench eh. Kung ano yung mashi-share ko sa mga players na naglalaro, mga little things, motivation, sinasabi ko sa kanila. Nakikinig naman sila. Gumagaan pakiramdam ko kung yung teammates mo may respeto sa iyo.”