CEBU Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (Cesafi) Mythical Five guard Darrell Shane Menina is finally getting his wish to return to the big stage and showcase the brand of play that has made him one of the finest guards in the south after agreeing to play for the Valenzuela City-Carga Backload Solution in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL).
Menina was a known commodity in Manila after stints with the Mapua Cardinals and the National University Bulldogs. However, he has been away from the national spotlight after spending the last few years in Cebu playing for the University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters.
After opting to forgo his playing eligibility in the Cesafi, Menina will now be suiting up in the MPBL, joining a Valenzuela backcourt that features all star Paulo Hubalde and fellow Cesafi alumnus Tristan Albina.
“I feel mixed emotions because the MPBL is one of the big leagues in the Philippines and to be given an opportunity to play at that stage is tremendous. I really just want to make the most out of this chance and not have any regrets about it in the end,” said Menina in an exclusive talk with SunStar Cebu.
This latest development is the culmination of what has been so far, a long and winding road for the Talisay City native. A few months ago, he was drafted by the Marinerong Pilipino Skippers in the PBA D-League but was unable to secure a roster spot. Menina said although there were times that he really considered giving up on his hoop dreams, his family was there to keep him going.
“There were really times when I started to doubt myself if I really had what it takes to play at the next level. I just tried my best to make it back to Manila, have faith in the Lord and try to listen to good advice,” shared Menina. (JNP)