Menk grateful for chance to win another title as retirement looms

MANILA, Philippines – A year ago, veteran center Eric Menk was simply satisfied with playing again. These days, he’s done more than just be a reliable veteran – he’s gotten back in touch with his old dominant self. And for that, he earned a trip back to the PBA finals.

There was a glimpse of the “Major Pain” fans knew and loved from his days with Barangay Ginebra in the 6-game semifinals series between the Alaska Aces and the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the 2015 PBA Philippine Cup.

Menk, clad in familiar red jersey but with a new team now in Alaska, appeared healthy and provided quality minutes and contribution for coach Alex Compton.

“I feel good. I’m happy to be contributing the way that I am on a good team,” said the 40-year old when asked if he felt like he was back to his old self. “I just feel really lucky to be on this team. Fortunate to have my health. It’s good to be back in the mix, you know.”

Menk, a 4-time PBA champion and a former PBA Most Valuable Player in 2005, averaged 10 points and 7 rebounds in all 6 games during the semifinals where he played for 21 minutes a night. Specifically in game 3 of that best-of-7 series, Alaska was +22 with the 6-foot-6 former Gin King on the floor who not only did all the intangibles, but also notched a double-double of 13 points and 10 boards. 

It’s a different time for the once dominant big man, but he is grateful nonetheless.

“My role is a lot different, obviously, from when I was younger. It’s my job to come in and relieve Sonny (Thoss). Sonny’s been playing well. I do feel good.” 

Menk’s decades long experience doesn’t exempt him from learning something new with Alaska. He doesn’t just pass on his wisdom, he gains it too.

“It’s fun. We put in a new defensive scheme that I’ve never done before, a new offense that I haven’t run before. You’re always trying to learn and pick up little things to where I can be effective within our offense, also playing with new guys for a new coach. So you’re always trying to learn,” he explained.

“Any young player should always try to learn, always try to get better to the end of their careers. That’s what I’m trying to do.”

Injuries took a toll on Menk’s career since 2009 as he slipped through the cracks of Ginebra’s rotation and found himself without a contract before the start of the 2014 season. He was about to hang up his sneakers for good when young team Globalport came calling and offered him a job.

With Globalport last season, where Menk’s role was a mentor and leader, he normed 5 points and 6 rebounds a game. 

He was then traded to Alaska for second round draft picks in August 2014 right before the rookie draft. He is currently on a one-year deal with the Aces, and embracing his inevitable retirement in the not so distant future. 

“Well, it’s coming up real quick. I don’t know how soon that will be,” Menk said. “Hopefully I play well enough for them (Alaska) to wanna keep me around.”

Menk does not know how much time he has left in the PBA. But after being under the radar last season, he’s happy for a golden opportunity to go out with one more title under his belt. Wrapping up his career with a team like Alaska is not a bad deal for him either. 

“I don’t know how much longer I can continue to do this but it’s good to be a part of a good team, with good teammates and good coaching staff and management,” he said. “I really owe a lot to them, they’re the ones that traded for me. I love it here.”

Menk can only hope his rejuvenated play won’t be too fleeting, and that it will be enough for at least one more rendezvous with glory. – Rappler.com