Former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) star Greg Slaughter has taken a significant step toward a possible return to Asia’s oldest professional league, reigniting excitement among Filipino basketball fans eager to see one of the most dominant big men of his generation back on the hardwood.
The 37-year-old veteran center recently made his long-awaited return to competitive basketball after suiting up for the Zamboanga Valientes in preparation for the upcoming Dubai International Basketball Championship. After spending an extended period away from high-level competition, Slaughter welcomed the opportunity to test himself once again against elite opposition, viewing the stint as both a personal challenge and a crucial step toward a larger goal.
That goal, by Slaughter’s own admission, is a full comeback to the PBA.
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Momentum toward that possibility grew after Titan Ultra Giant Risers team owner Bryann Calantoc confirmed that discussions with Slaughter have resumed, reopening the door for the former No. 1 overall pick to return to the league where he enjoyed the most success of his career. Slaughter’s PBA rights remain with Titan Ultra following the company’s acquisition of the NorthPort franchise, making the Giant Risers the natural landing spot should a deal materialize.
Slaughter’s seriousness about a comeback was underscored early Tuesday morning, February 3, when he met with Titan Ultra officials at Victoria Sports Gym in Quezon City. Despite having just arrived from Dubai and with plans tied to his daughter’s birthday later that day, the veteran center made time for the meeting—rescheduling personal commitments to ensure he could be present.
“It’s kinda nostalgic finally stepping into a venue that’s just about the PBA. Everybody knows, the PBA is the country’s premiere league and playing here is definitely and honor for everyone given the opportunity,” Slaughter said in a media interaction.
“It’s something definitely I want to come back to. PBA has always been a league that I have had a lot of success in individually, but also with the team. I am very confident that I can come back and be a major contributor again,” he added.
A former centerpiece for multiple championship-contending teams, Slaughter built a reputation as an elite interior force during his prime years—anchoring defenses, controlling the paint, and providing a reliable post presence that few could match. While injuries and time away from the league slowed his momentum in recent seasons, Slaughter believes his experience, size, and understanding of the game can still make a meaningful impact.
For Titan Ultra, the interest is mutual. The Giant Risers’ current roster has struggled with size and interior depth, and Calantoc views Slaughter as a potential solution to stabilize the team’s frontcourt and provide leadership both on and off the floor.
“I hope we can get this deal signed. I believe Greg is not what we read about him. He was a gentle giant and easy to talk with. We also saw his sincerity to return to the PBA. If our negotiation turns out well, we can be his ticket back to the league,” Calantoc said.
“I can see naman Greg’s determination to return. Imagine, he just arrived from Dubai, birthday pa ng anak n’ya today, pero he said he will meet with us. Kaya I am looking forward to this. Excited na tayo,” he added.
As negotiations continue, Slaughter’s possible return represents more than just another roster move. It signals the comeback of a former franchise player whose presence once shaped the league’s competitive balance. Should talks conclude successfully, Filipino fans may soon witness a familiar sight once again—a towering center patrolling the paint, wearing PBA colors, and chasing one more meaningful chapter in a storied career.
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