MANILA, Philippines – Alex Cabagnot had a double celebration Wednesday night, May 30, as he notched a career milestone during San Miguel’s first win in the 2018 PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

Cabagnot cracked the Top 10 in the league’s all-time assists leaders after issuing 7 assists on top of 13 points and 6 rebounds as the Beermen ended a 3-game skid with a 106-94 victory over Phoenix.

The 35-year-old playmaker now has 2,939 assists to overtake PBA legend Francis Arnaiz, who had 2,938 assists amassed in a 15-year career. 

He achieved the feat following a dish to Christian Standhardinger at the 9:46 mark in the payoff period, a field goal that helped set the pace for San Miguel’s strong 4th-quarter showing. 

“I wish my mom, my brother, and my family could’ve witnessed it. I’m glad we won, but it’s such a big accomplishment. Syempre naman (Of course), being in the league for…it’s my 13th year, so to God be the glory,” Cabagnot said. 

The only active player in the Top 10, “The Crunchman” is now 146 assists away from passing former San Miguel teammate Olsen Racela, who ended his career with 3,085 assists. 

Robert Jaworski (5,825 assists), Ramon Fernandez (5,220), Dindo Pumaren (4,043), Johnny Abarrientos (3,757) and Jimmy Alapag (3,406) top the league’s all-time assists list. 

“I think all the Top 10 members are all Hall of Famers and just being mentioned [together with them] is a blessing. Just happy right now,” Cabagnot said. 

Like the way he passed the ball, Cabagnot also shared the credit to his teammates.

“I just thank all my teammates. Syempre naman (Of course), they made the baskets. I just passed it to them.” 

Cabagnot and the Beermen brace for a dogfight when they face Barangay Ginebra on Sunday, June 3, at the Mall of Asia Arena. – Rappler.com