At 41, Gary David reps Bataan in 1st MPBL All-Star Game

MANILA, Philippines – A few months shy of his 41st birthday, Gary David is still making waves in the local basketball scene. 

Long past his Gilas days, “El Granada” is still showing that he can still detonate those long-range bombs with the Bataan Risers.

David is the lone Riser named to the first-ever Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League All-Star Game that will be held on March 2 at the Mall of Asia Arena. 

“Masaya na kasama ako sa MPBL All-Star Game at kabilang sa first five,” beamed David upon hearing the news of him making the squad. “Ibig sabihin madami din bumoto sa akin at nagmahahal pa rin.”

David didn’t forget his Bataan teammates and lamented the non-inclusion of his other Risers teammates such as Pamboy Raymundo, Byron Villarias and Gab Daganon to name a few who have been equally outstanding for the team this season where they have posted a league best 21-2 record. 

“Proud ako na kasama ako pero nalulungkot din ako kasi marami pa tayong mga teammates na deserving din na maglaro rito. Pero ayon yun sa rules ng liga so we have to respect that. Masarap din yung feeling na naintindihan ng teammates ko at todo suporta sila.”

Bataan head coach Jojo Lastimosa reinforced that communal feeling, “Gary is Bataan’s most recognizable player perhaps even in the MPBL. He’s still performing at a good level considering his long career. We have worthy candidates in our team who deserve to be included in the All-Star Game but I don’t think it is their priority.”

The selection is especially sweet for Bataan natives as David hails from the town of Dinalupihan — making him a truly homegrown son.

David was named to the North All-Star selection alongside San Juan’s Mike Anoyanon, Makati’s Cedric Ablaza, Manila’s Aris Dionisio and Pasig’s Mark Andaya. 

During his 14-year PBA career, David also made the All-Star team five times (2007, 2009, 2012-14). He was named PBA All-Star Game Most Valuable Player in 2014.

In 23 matches with Bataan in the ongoing Datu Cup, David is averaging 10.4 points on 42% field goal shooting to go with 3.0 rebounds.

“I hope to do my best in representing the North team as well as Bataan in this MPBL All-Star Game,” promised David.