PJ Simon retires from PBA after 17 colorful years
Hall of famer, a warrior, best teammate, a quiet assassin.
These are some of the best way colleagues described Peter June Simon, who officially retired from the PBA on Wednesday.
The 40-year-old native of Makilala, Cotabato announced his decision to hang his jersey in an Instagram post, looking back at his 17-year playing journey which he entirely spent with the Purefoods franchise.
“Hindi ko inakalang possible pala para sa isang payat at maliit na bata mula sa Makilala, North Cotabato na makarating sa PBA. Hindi ko rin inakala na pagkatapos hindi mapansin nung 2001 PBA Rookie Draft na possible pa pala magiwan ng sarili kong marka sa liga,” said Simon in his touching retirement message. “Nakakalungkot man, pero ito na siguro yung tamang panahon para mag-paalam sa liga.”
Simon was barely given a second look when he decided to turn pro. He was picked in the fifth round at no. 43 overall by Sta. Lucia, but never got to sign a rookie contract and became a free agent.
Purefoods coach Ryan Gregorio gambled on him in 2004 and made him part of the rebuilding process he initiated at Purefoods.
Simon proved to be a surprise catch that by the end of his career, he has a total of eight championships tucked under his belt, a Mythical Second Team member, an eight-time All-Star, a two-time Mr. Quality Minutes, an MVP All-Star, and an All-Star Three-Point Shootout champion. — PBA.ph