WHILE it all seems moot now given that the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (Cesafi) announced last Friday the cancellation of the 2020 season, reigning Most Valuable Player Shaquille Imperial disclosed that he was all set to return to the Southwestern University-Phinma Cobras to play out his final year of eligibility.
For a time, Imperial, the 5-foot-11 guard from Lapu-Lapu City that rose to prominence last year after leading the Cobras to the 2019 Cesafi men’s basketball championship, was undecided regarding his plans after graduating from SWU-Phinma.
However, just when he had made a decision regarding his playing future, the Cesafi made the unfortunate announcement.
“Before the Cesafi was cancelled, I had already decided that I would still play in the Cesafi,” said Imperial. “Although I had several offers to play in Manila and in the commercial league, I decided to put those on hold for the meantime because I really wanted to play in the Cesafi.”
Imperial explains that for all the plaudits he is receiving, he personally feels that he is not yet ready for the prime time.
“I am not yet ready for the big stage. I still want to improve my skills here in Cebu before I decide to play anywhere else,” said Imperial.
For now, Imperial is keeping himself busy and in shape in spite of the enhanced community quarantine that is in place because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“My priority is to keep myself in shape and practice on my skills. I am hoping that the quarantine be lifted soon so that we can all get back to playing. For now, I am just staying at home and spending time with my family,” said Imperial.
While the Cesafi has yet to decide on the playing status of those student-athletes that were supposedly going to play in their final seasons this year, Imperial is keeping his options open.
“I really want to still play in the Cesafi. I am keeping my options open. I have not talked to coach Mike about my plans so there is nothing definite. Let’s just wait and see because a lot of things can still happen because of Covid-19,” added Imperial.