NLEX set to activate Asi Taulava for game against TNT

Asi Taulava is set to make his comeback during the PBA Season 48 Commissioner’s Cup match between NLEX and sister team TNT at the Philsports Arena in Pasig on Wednesday.

This will mark Taulava’s 24th season in the PBA, surpassing the record of the league’s only “Living Legend,” Robert “Sonny” Jaworski.

NLEX announced Taulava’s reactivation on Tuesday through their social media account.

Known as the “Rock,” Taulava played his last PBA game on November 9, 2022, where he had a scoreless performance in a 107-94 loss to NorthPort in the 2022-23 Commissioner’s Cup.

During halftime at the renowned Pasig City sports venue, Taulava’s jersey will be officially retired.

The 6-foot-9 Taulava began his professional basketball journey in 1998 when he was directly hired by Mobiline, the present day Tropang Giga.

Recognized as one of the 40 Greatest PBA Players, this former BYU-Hawaii standout had a remarkable season in 2003. He led Talk ‘N Text to victory in the All-Filipino Cup championship, showcasing his exceptional skills.

His outstanding performance during that season earned him several accolades. He was named the PBA Finals MVP, received the Best Player of the Conference trophy, and ultimately, was awarded the season’s Most Valuable Player. Throughout 54 games, he averaged an impressive 23.4 points, 13.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.3 blocks, marking the best statistics of his career.

Taulava’s career is adorned with numerous notable achievements. He has participated in the PBA All-Star game 17 times, earning two All-Star Game MVP titles. Additionally, he has been selected for the Mythical First team four times and has received three All-Defensive Team citations.

However, like any other athlete, Taulava also faced challenges and setbacks throughout his lengthy PBA career. He played for various teams including the Coca-Cola Tigers, Meralco Bolts, and Air21, before finally finding his place in NLEX starting from 2014.

After his time with Meralco in the PBA, Taulava took a brief hiatus and joined San Miguel Beer in the ASEAN Basketball League. He successfully guided the team to victory in the regional competition and was honored with the MVP award.

As he concludes his remarkable career in the PBA, Taulava will settle with career averages of 13.7 points and 10.3 rebounds per game, accumulated in over 600 games played.