Former Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) MVP Gab Banal is getting another shot at the pros after the Alaska Aces signed him to a contract on Thursday.

Banal announced the signing on his Instagram page with a photo of him and Alaska team governor Dickie Bachmann holding up his new contract. This is Banal’s second go-round in the pros after he was drafted by San Miguel back in 2014. However, the 30-year old played in just four games in two seasons for the Northport Batang Pier.

Banal then played in a host of different leagues where he found success, winning MVP honors in the MPBL while playing for the Bacoor Strikers. He was also named the Finals MVP in the PBA D-League while suiting up for Go for Gold. He has also thrived in the Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3x3 circuit.

Banal said he may have taken a longer route but it certainly has turned him into a better, more mature player.

“Siguro naging mature ako competing in the MPBL, D-League, 3x3. Marami talaga. I guess yung maturity ko as a player na-develop kasi I’m meeting new players, facing different opponents international and halfcourt (I became more mature competing in the MPBL, D-League, 3x3. My maturity developed because I got to meet new players and face off against different opponents both in international competitions and in a halfcourt setting),” said Banal in a talk with Spin.ph. (JNP)