Alex Cabagnot and Chris Ross up close and personal

Alex Cabagnot (left) and Chris Ross of San Miguel Beermen

PBA (Philippine Basketball Association) superstars Alex Cabagnot and Chris Ross of San Miguel Beermen (SMB) can give matinee idols a run for their money. The dynamic duo’s basketball wizardry adds to their appeal (or as we say in local parlance, “dagdag pogi points”).

I enjoy chatting with both cagers in our Viber group before and after their games. I fondly call them “Cornrow Bros.” They played pivotal roles in SMB’s victory at the 2017 PBA Commissioner’s Cup. Alex was named the Most Valuable Player of the finals, while Chris bagged the Best Player of the Conference award. Hoop, hoop, hooray!

Here’s my chat with Alex:

What do you find hard to resist in a girl? A beautiful smile, tall and smart—with high IQ and EQ.

When will you know that it’s time to settle down? I believe in love at first sight, so I’m pretty sure it will happen any time soon.

What was the lowest point in your life, and how did you bounce back? My Lola and Tito passed away in the same week. I had to arrange all the papers and “accommodations” before my Mom and Tita came home from the States. It was difficult seeing two caskets in one wake, and seeing my mom so sad and feeling down. I just prayed to God to heal my mother’s heart and mine.

At what age do you intend to retire from the PBA, and what would you do after? I pray to play in the PBA and be relevant to my team until I’m 40. Now I’m a coach at UP. I want to do that when it’s time to retire.

How do you handle defeat? With a grain of salt. I trust in God’s will. He’s in charge with the results.

What do you find hard to understand about women? Nothing. I understand women well. They’re beautiful creatures who need to be cherished.

What are your thoughts on fidelity and jealousy? They’re part of life. I’m the jealous type, and I don’t know why—but that’s me. Fidelity is a must.

What PBA moniker would you give yourself ? “Air Alex.”

My chat with Chris:

How did you reward yourself after SMB’s victory? With a couple of bottles of San Miguel Beer—and I’m going on a trip to the US. I’m not a big spender, so I’ll save most of my bonus and share a portion of it with my mom and dad.

Any changes you would want to see in the PBA? The lowering of ticket prices so it would be more affordable for people to watch the games live. Also, to add more teams because there’s so much talent that needs to be tapped.

Do you prefer being single or in a relationship? I like both. Hopefully, I’ll soon find a partner to share my life with.

What’s the craziest thing that you’ve done for love? I flew for 24 hours just to be with a former girlfriend.

At what age do you intend to retire from the PBA? No set age for retirement. I told myself when I started that I’d be happy to play for 10 years. Now, I plan to play as long as I can.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned so far? Having confidence in yourself brings out the best in you.

How do you handle hecklers? I don’t mind them. I think it makes them angrier when you don’t reply.

Aside from basketball, what else are you good at? I’m good at getting along with people and being likable.

How are you handling fame? I don’t consider myself famous. I try to be as normal as possible and fit in with the rest. I try not to be a snob.