Former NLEX Road Warriors import Thomas Robinson is eyeing a redemption stint in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) after his first season in the league ended in a controversial manner. His journey is a reminder that athletes often face hurdles and controversies, but redemption is always within reach.
Robinson was signed as the team’s import for the 2023/24 PBA Commissioner’s Cup, but his time with the Road Warriors was short-lived. After only four games, he found himself embroiled in a spat with team manager Pido Jarencio, leading to his departure from the franchise. Robinson’s decision to go on an unplanned vacation and miss crucial team practices contributed significantly to his release.
“You’re one bullet!”. His use of the English language was terrible as always but his message was very clear. Pido Jarencio audaciously threatened to put a bullet into Thomas Robinson’s head. If Jarencio isn’t given a lengthy suspension, PBA politics will have won out again. pic.twitter.com/k1LvbovL0j
— PBA insider 🏀 (@PBAinsider) November 24, 2023
Despite this controversy, Robinson showcased his talent on the court, averaging an impressive 34.5 points, 13.2 rebounds, 1.7 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game during his limited appearances. His performance indicated that, despite the off-court issues, he possesses the skills necessary to contribute significantly to a team.
Robinson is vocal about wanting to improve his image, emphasizing that he is not a bad person. "I’m not a hot-tempered, out of control guy. I want to fix any bad reputation. I want to clear things and let it be known what I feel, where my mindset is. My family was pretty upset that we had to leave. They are still unhappy until today. They fell so in love with the Philippines," he expressed during an interview with Spin.ph. His desire to return to the Philippines stems from a profound appreciation for the culture and the people.
His family’s sentiment highlights the emotional aspect of his journey. “I want to come, and my family is thinking about making the Philippines a long-term place for us. So we are looking forward to that,” Robinson added. This statement reflects not only his ambition to rebuild his career but also his genuine connection to the country.
Selected as the fifth overall pick by the Sacramento Kings in the 2012 NBA draft, Robinson has had a varied and extensive career in basketball. His resume includes stints with several prestigious NBA teams, such as the Houston Rockets, Portland Trail Blazers, Philadelphia 76ers, Brooklyn Nets, and Los Angeles Lakers.
Beyond the NBA, Robinson has played in numerous leagues around the globe, including in Russia, China, Turkey, Puerto Rico, South Korea, and Indonesia. This diverse experience has shaped him into a well-rounded player, capable of adapting to different styles of play and cultures.
Robinson is not just looking for a short-term return to the PBA; he envisions a long-term future in the Philippines. “I have been talking with my management and realizing where I want to be for the rest of my career. I told them that the Philippines, of all the places I have been, is the best and I would like to finish my career there if it is possible. Hopefully, I can get on a team out there and try to stick and try to be a resident there,” he stated.
His ambition to become a naturalized resident reflects his deep commitment to making a meaningful connection with the country and its basketball community. Robinson’s story resonates with many fans who appreciate the passion he brings to the sport.
Robinson also expressed a desire to make amends with the NLEX franchise and team manager Pido Jarencio. "I would love to go back to NLEX. I love those guys over there. I sincerely want to send my apologies to Jarencio, and I want him to know that I didn’t learn about him until after the incident. I now apologize and have a high respect for what he has done in basketball," he remarked.
This sentiment of accountability is crucial in sports. It shows that athletes can learn from their mistakes and strive to better themselves, both on and off the court. Robinson’s willingness to apologize and his respect for his former team manager indicate a mature understanding of the relationships that are vital in professional sports.
As the PBA continues to attract talent from around the world, it will be intriguing to see if Robinson gets a second chance to showcase his skills. His journey serves as a lesson in resilience and determination, reminding both players and fans that redemption is always possible, even after facing significant challenges.
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