Almost a year after getting hospitalized due to drug overdose, Mac Cardona is within reach of a PBA comeback. And he has GlobalPort Batang Pier coach Franz Pumaren to thank for.
The former scoring champion is currently practicing with GlobalPort Batang Pier after Pumaren, who handled Cardona in his collegiate years in the UAAP, gave him another chance to return to the game he loves.
“Nung na-hospitalize ako a few months ago, si Coach Franz yung isa sa mga special people na bumisita sa akin,” Cardona said. “Sabi niya sa akin noon, kung ready ka na mag-basketball, sabihin mo lang.”
Pumaren said opening his doors to Cardona is his way to help “The Captain Hook” start anew.
“Tayo naman willing tayong tumulong be it sa pagbibigay ng opportunity sa players or even sa buhay ng tao,” Pumaren said.
Pumaren clarified Cardona is not guaranteed to make it to the active roster. But he said that the player is really determined to get back on track.
“Medyo nabigla lang kasi ang tagal hindi naglalaro eh,” Pumaren said.
Cardona, who had a brief stint with Zark’s Burger in the PBA D-League, said he has been religiously practicing with the Batang Pier.
“Araw-araw pa rin akong nasa ensayo ng GlobalPort. Medyo natigil lang ako dahil sa minor calf injury pero OK na ako,” Cardona told InterAksyon.
