Allein Maliksi excited to return for Meralco in PBA Season 50 after missing a year due to injuries

Meralco Bolts veteran Allein Maliksi is set to make his much-anticipated return in PBA Season 50, after missing over a year due to a string of injuries that sidelined the 38-year-old forward during the 2024 and 2025 campaigns.

Maliksi’s last full action came during Meralco’s historic Philippine Cup championship run in 2024. Shortly after lifting the title, he underwent knee surgery, only to suffer a further setback when he developed sciatica — a painful nerve condition — during the 2025 Commissioner’s Cup.

“It was a difficult time. I was really down during the injury. Gustong-gusto ko na talagang maglaro,” said Maliksi during PBA Media Day. “But I had no choice but to focus on recovery. Now, I’m just happy and blessed to be back.”

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Maliksi only resumed full training two months ago, and while excited to rejoin Meralco’s active roster, he admits he’ll need time to fully adjust.

A look at the Meralco Bolts during PBA Media Day ⚡️

Veteran sniper Allein Maliksi makes his return after being out for over a year due to knee and back injuries. pic.twitter.com/LPiwOns6pm

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“Still learning to adapt to the system again. My goal is to be more efficient on both ends of the court and help the team win another championship,” he added.

Maliksi is expected to provide leadership and scoring depth for the Bolts as they prepare for a tough Philippine Cup field. Head coach Luigi Trillo will lean on his experience alongside mainstays Chris Newsome, Cliff Hodge, and Raymond Almazan.

A former 8th overall pick in the 2011 PBA Draft, Maliksi has played for Petron, Ginebra, Star Hotshots, Blackwater, and Meralco. He has won five PBA titles, was named PBA Mr. Quality Minutes in 2017, and is a two-time All-Star.

“I know my role. I want to be efficient with the minutes given to me and help the team get back to the top,” Maliksi said. “At this stage in my career, every opportunity on the court is valuable.”

The PBA’s 50th season opens with the Philippine Cup and promises to be one of the most competitive yet, with all 12 teams reloading for a shot at history. The season will run until December 2026, culminating with the Commissioner’s Cup.

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