Paul Zamar was ready to quit basketball—Until Blackwater offered him a new lease of life

Veteran shooting guard Paul Zamar came close to walking away from basketball just two months ago. At 37, his Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) career seemed to stall after NorthPort Batang Pier opted not to renew his contract at the end of last season.

“I was also shocked with what happened at NorthPort,” Zamar recalled. “They told me the day before my contract expired that I would not be renewed. We tried to reach out weeks and even days before, but they said it was still under discussion. But that’s all behind me now—it’s water under the bridge.”

The uncertainty had Zamar strongly considering retirement. He revealed that he received an enticing offer from former UP standout and coach Nestor David to coach at United World College of South East Asia in Singapore.

“I almost gave up on my career. When my contract expired with NorthPort, I was offered a coaching job at a British international school in Singapore with good compensation,” Zamar said. “But the catch was I had to go alone and leave my family behind. My wife was about to give birth, so I couldn’t take it. Instead, I focused on rehab and kept myself in shape so I’d be ready if another chance came.”

That chance arrived unexpectedly. On July 30, while attending a children’s party, Zamar received a call from Blackwater Bossing owner Dioceldo Sy, who offered him a roster spot.

NEWEST BLESSING 🫶

Jane Zamar safely delivered their third child, and proud dad Paul Zamar of the Blackwater Bossing couldn’t be happier. Sending love and congratulations to the growing Zamar family!

📸 Instagram | @janezamar#PBA50 #PBAAngatAngLaban pic.twitter.com/wWvfIUsh0P

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) August 20, 2025

“Boss Dioceldo said after watching the Finals, he realized the team needed a veteran presence,” Zamar shared. “Everything happened so fast, and suddenly I was back with the team that gave me my first opportunity to play in the PBA.”

Zamar first suited up for Blackwater in 2018. This time around, the reunion came at a pivotal moment both professionally and personally. Just two months after nearly retiring, he signed a fresh contract with the Bossing—and days later, on August 16, welcomed the birth of his third child.

Zamar described the turn of events as nothing short of divine providence.

“I’m so amazed at how God worked in ways I couldn’t imagine,” he said. “I still did my part to stay ready, but this was God’s work in my life. I couldn’t be more thankful for this opportunity. It’s been a real roller coaster these past two months.”

Drafted 35th overall by Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in 2012, Zamar has carved out a respectable career in the PBA. He is a three-time champion and was honored with the 2024 PBA Sportsmanship Award.

Now back with Blackwater, the veteran guard is determined to make the most of his second lease on basketball life.

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