Gentle giant from Pampanga now a PBA superstar

ARWIND Santos ( left) and June Mar Fajardo of San Miguel Beer

Being a PBA (Philippine Basketball Association) Girl ever since, I was in awe of the San Miguel Beermen (SMB) during the recent PBA All-Filipino Cup.

SMB made history by being the first team in the PBA (and even the NBA) to ever win a Best-of-7 series from a 0-3 deficit.

In this basketball-crazy country, PBA cagers are considered demigods. They’re worshipped like movie stars. After retiring from the PBA, many players change courts and join show biz.

One of the star players of SMB, Arwind Santos was instrumental in clinching its historic championship. The gentle giant’s rise to fame from his humble beginnings in Pampanga is one for the books.

Aside from basketball, Arwind also composes songs. He plans to come up with a record someday. For now, he will keep dribbling his way to the hearts of every basketball fanatic.

Here’s my one-on-one with Arwind:

What key factors made SMB bounce back from a 0-3 deficit against Alaska Aces?

Our trust in each other as a team and the vote of confidence of our coaching staff and management. When we were down 0-3 versus Alaska, all we were hoping for was just one win.

When we tied the series at 3-3 … victory was just a game away.  We wanted to make history and leave a legacy, so that motivated us.

What reward will you give yourself after winning the championship?

Not for myself, but for my family and loved ones. Their happiness is mine, as well.

Who’s the hardest PBA player to guard?

Vic Manuel and Terrence  Romeo.

Do you have plans of joining show biz?

It’s hard to mix show biz and PBA. Although I’m open to the idea, for now, all I can do is guest in some shows when my schedule permits.

Why are you called “Spiderman”?

I pop up to get the rebound, even if I’m far away from the ball. They get surprised at how I manage to be in the right place at the right time.

How do you handle victory and defeat?

In victory, I never forget to thank the Lord, my supporters and loved ones, and stay humble.

In defeat, I still don’t forget to thank God for my talent. I accept the loss. I don’t mind people who are trying to pull me down. I keep my heart pure, my mind strong and my feelings solid.

What’s the best part of being a PBA superstar?

My long, hard climb to success can serve as an inspiration for aspiring basketball players to keep going.

To this day, I still can’t believe that I am playing alongside the PBA players I idolize.

What’s the toughest part of being a superstar?

Sustaining the expectations of the people that I must play well each time. But nobody’s perfect, even in basketball. All players have their “off days,” no matter how hard they try!