3 Gin Kings coming back

By Rey Joble

FORMER PBA Most Valuable Player Eric Menk is set to be back along with JJ Helterbrand after a vacation in the United States.

So is Raffi Reavis, who is set to return after a shoulder injury operation.

And Johnny Abarrientos has renewed ties with Ginebra for another year, making the league’s most popular squad ready to defend its Philippine Cup crown beginning Oct.14.


“He was supposed to be here last week, but he failed to make it,” Ginebra coach Jong Uichico said. “We still don’t know why he failed to make the trip back home, but at least, he gave an advisory that he is set to return and we are preparing for it. Right now, strengthening na lang ang gagawin sa shoulder niya so he can play again.”

“As for Eric, he is set to be here anytime and malamang sabay na sila ni JJ,” added Uichico.

Menk injured his leg in the latter part of the 2006-2007 season outside of the basketball court, but he worked his way back in the closing stretch of the Fiesta Conference.

In fact, the 6-6 center even made it to the national team in Tokushima, Japan, but was never his usual self since incurring an injury.

His return, however, will be a big boost to the Gin Kings’ title-retention drive. Menk appeared to have already fixed his personal problems.

“I don’t think Eric will exchange career over personal matters at this moment. We’re all professionals and I expect him to act like one,” said Uichico. “Now, we’re business as usual and we’re waiting for everyone. Our system is that we at this team have no superstars and everybody will be given the chance.”