Given the opportunity to revive a once flourishing career, Willlie Miller did not disappoint his backers as he put on an impressive game in his return to his former team, Talk ’N Text.
The former two-time MVP proved he still has enough fire left by scoring 10 points in helping TNT pull off a thrilling 89-86 win over Rain or Shine in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Wednesday night at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.
The 5-foot-11 Miller was all set to bid goodbye to the league that made him one of the most exciting players after his contract was not renewed by Barako Bull last year.
However, when former teammate Jimmy Alapag told him he can still play with TNT, Miller gave himself another chance hoping he can end his career with dignity.
“Na-sorpresa din ako, hindi ko na ine-expect,” said Miller. “Sabi ko nga sa sarili ko, kung hindi rin lang contender, huwag na lang din. Ayoko din kasi na gigising ka sa umaga na masama ang loob (from a loss). Hindi naman ako yung gusto lang eh sumuweldo. Gusto ko na manalo, na makatulong sa team.”
“Eto Talk ’N Text. Kelan ba sila nawala sa playoffs? So, ibig sabihin may pag-asa na mag-champion. Saka nung tumawag sa akin si Jimmy, sino ba ang makaka-hindi kay Jimmy?” Miller added.
It was Miller’s first game after missing the Philippine Cup when no team offered him a contract.
During the stretch of the Philippine Cup, Miller was forced to play in a commercial league in Marikina, the DELeague. He also played in a small tournament in Iloilo recently.
Winner of the MVP in 2002 and 2007, Miller played for 19 minutes – a testament to the respect of Coach Jong Uichico to him. While he shot 4-of-12 from the field, he also had three rebounds, three assists and two steals off the bench.