In recent years, Calvin Abueva was known more for bouncing around teams than his oncourt production. Some cited his age and size and how those combined with his skillset were not fit for the current state of the game. Of course, the Abueva experience is not complete without controversy as he figured in fights and mishaps that often made him a thorn in the side of his teams.  

But, something about PBA Season 50 and his current team’s rebranding may have lit a fire under him. 

Abueva’s previous career-high was 31 points, but he easily eclipsed that with his 41 in the Titan Ultra Giant Risers’ 100-96 debut victory over the Meralco Bolts. Aggressive may be the apt term to describe the nine-time PBA All-Star’s performance, as he was not afraid to barrel through taller opponents and also found his shooting touch from behind the 3-point line. Hitting the floor wasn’t an issue for him so long as he was dealing damage to those who put him there. 

It seemed the Bolts were caught by surprise, but it’s also clear that Abueva wanted to send a message to his teammates and the rest of the PBA. The two-time PBA Best Player of the Conference has been a forgotten man among the likes of June Mar Fajardo, Robert Bolick, Scottie Thomspon, and Calvin Oftana. But it’s obvious Abueva still has something to offer to the Giant Risers, health and behavior be willing. 

While Titan Ultra retained much of the NorthPort Batang Pier’s core, the team has nonetheless gone through its own restart. Things can get confusing especially when the players are seeking stability amid uncertain times. Yes, the Giant Risers management was able to step in immediately and erase some of the uncertainty, but having stability oncourt is another matter. Meralco did give them a solid first test and thanks to Abueva’s efforts, they passed the first of many hurdles to come. 

Can Titan Ultra sustain the momentum? It largely depends on a number of factors, but Abueva stepping up early is a good start. For a new team, they would take the oncourt production over the unnecessary distractions off it. Of course, the Giant Risers still have to contend with facing the likes of the San Miguel Beermen and the TNT Tropang Giga later on in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup, but having a focused Abueva should boost their chances.

Perhaps a rebranding was all Calvin Abueva needed to “rebrand” himself one game into his stint with the Titan Ultra Giant Risers. It’s highly unlikely he can top 41 points anytime soon, but they will need the intangibles that lead to his big scoring night. Besides, he’s better off leading by example as he is now an elder statesman looking to ride off into the sunset with the Giant Risers better off than when he entered the picture.