PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan – It will be an emotional night on Sunday when Asi Taulava plays in an unprecedented 13th PBA All Star game here.
More than the record of longevity, the NLEX center is looking forward to reuniting with former teammate Jimmy Alapag. And perhaps playing together for one last time.
Alapag, now Talk n Text's team manager and Gilas assistant coach, will be feted with an elaborate retirement ceremony at halftime of the All-Star game.
Taulava was the first to roar and clap for Alapag when the 37-year-old former Gilas skipper stepped on the court on Friday for the Three-Point Shootout challenge. He has been one of Alapag's biggest supporters since Day One.
They were the cornerstones of Talk n Text franchise. Taulava has been a big brother to Alapag since he was picked 10th overall in 2003.
They've won championships together and even shared All-Star Game MVP award in 2004. But their partnership did not last long. In 2007, Talk n Text decided to part ways with Taulava and he was traded to defunct Coca-Cola Tigers for Ali Peek.
Alapag and Taulava never shared the court together on the same team again until on Sunday night’s game.
"This won't be just another All-Star game. So you know, saying goodbye to a friend, a little brother, it's kinda hard," an emotional Taulava said.
With the All Star game reverting back to the old North-versus-South format and Alapag making himself available for the mid-season classic for one last time, Taulava does not want to blow away the golden chance.
Not even a flu won't stop Asi Taulava from re-connecting with his old pal.
"I've been preparing mentally, physically and emotionally," said Taulava trying to fight back tears.
There will be plenty of Alapag-to-Taulava highlights for sure.
On Sunday night, time will rewind. Goose bumps will envelope the Puerto Princesa City Coliseum here when the Mighty Mouse will find the Rock for a bucket.
Fans will enjoy that one last Jimmy-to-Asi moment.