Danny Ildefonso on retirement plans: 'Pag kailangan pa ako, laro pa ako'

Veteran PBA player Danny Ildefonso has been mulling retirement this season after 17 years in professional basketball.

The Meralco big man said last month that he's planning to hang his sneakers in July at the close of the season-ending Governors' Cup.

But with the Bolts bowing out of the playoffs against San Miguel Beer on Monday in what could be his final game, Ildefonso said that he's still open to continue playing for the team.

"Depende kung kailangan pa ako ng Meralco, baka mag-extend pa ako," he told reporters after the game. "Sa akin lang, basta pag kailangan pa ako, laro pa ako."

Meralco head coach Norman Black said there is no doubt Ildefonso can still compete at age 38, but whether or not the team will urgently need him next season will depend on who they draft in August.

Ildefonso said he is still enjoying his stint for the Bolts so far despite his limited minutes as an aging role player for the squad, and would be glad to lend his services for a few more conferences.

"Saka sabi ng mga anak ko maglaro daw muna ako," Ildefonso added.

The veteran big man has enjoyed a highly decorated career, winning eight championships for his long-time team San Miguel Beer. He was the last player to bag back-to-back Most Valuable Player trophies and five consecutive Best Player of the Conference awards. - RAF, GMA News