AFTER playing 3×3 in Thailand, former PBA player James Martinez will return to play for the Phoenix Basketball Club in Sarawak, Sibu from April 4 to 14.

Martinez will reinforce Phoenix in the Doremart Cup Open 2025.

Two years ago, Martinez won a championship and was named Finals MVP with the Cola Warriors.

Now, he is set to play for Phoenix.

During that title run, he played alongside Wowie Escosio, Patrick Cabahug, and Carlos David, defeating RJ Deles, Caunan, and Louie Vigil of Ming Chou Noodles in the finals.

Martinez is no stranger to international basketball competition. In fact, he also led the Phuket Waves to a championship in the Thailand Basketball League.

“Sobrang blessed talaga ako, lalo na may nakakaalala pa sa ibang bansa at naiimbitahan na maglaro. Actually, pangapat ko na dito sa East Malaysia,” said Martinez, who was selected as No. 18 overall by Barangay Ginebra in the 2011 PBA Draft.

“Madalas ako naglalaro sa West Malaysia, sa Johor Bahru at KL. Thankful ako sa management ng Phoenix team na kinuha nila ako na mag-represent at makapaglaro sa kanila,” added Martinez, also a former University of the East standout.

The 5-9 Martinez expressed his gratitude to those who have always supported him.

“Nagpapasalamat ako kay Catherine Vicencio ng Drip and Shots, kay madam Dahlia at madam Pinky ng Sakura Lounge Ph, Piere Lim ng Sportsology, The Third floor ni boss Gerald, boss Jett Maronilla, boss BC and Gino, boss Buenavista, boss Dennis Chiang at Pawlo Misolas ng Sprinto Shades as my official eyewear,.”

AUTHOR PROFILE

Robert Andaya