Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) commissioner Willie Marcial revealed that he has already met with embattled Phoenix forward Calvin Abueva following the completion of the requirements that were set for the lifting of the latter’s indefinite suspension.

However, Marcial announced that a proper process still needs to be undertaken before Abueva’s suspension — which is going on 14 months now — can be lifted. In an appearance on the Philippine Sportswriters Association web forum, Marcial said he has already relayed this to Abueva.

“Sinasabi ko sa kanya, ‘Calvin, may proseso pang gagawin.’ Pero ang maganda, nagka-usap kami, naintindihan niya ako, naiintindihan ko siya. Maganda ito (I told him ‘Calvin, there’s a process that still needs to be done.’ The good thing is we have spoken, he understood me, I understood him and that’s a good thing),” said Marcial.

It has been a long road for Abueva who suffered the wrath of the PBA after consecutive incidents that happened during the 2019 Commissioner’s Cup. He was meted an indefinite suspension and was compelled to undergo a series of drug and psychological tests as part of the requirements needed for him to possibly return to the PBA.

In spite of the fact that Abueva will remain suspended for the time being, Marcial was happy to note that he already saw improvements in Abueva.

“May improvement si Calvin,” said Marcial. (JNP)