Fresh off a grueling PBA Finals showdown, CJ Perez is already back in grind mode — this time, for flag and country.
Just days after helping San Miguel Beer reclaim the Philippine Cup title over TNT in a thrilling six-game series, the 31-year-old dynamo reported for duty with Gilas Pilipinas at the Hustle Fitness Performance camp in Pampanga. No time off. No complaints. No excuses.
“Walang pagod ‘pag panalo,” Perez said with a grin.
While other stars like June Mar Fajardo and Calvin Oftana—who both battled injuries during the finals—were understandably sidelined during scrimmages, Perez showed no signs of slowing down. Still riding the high of his third PBA championship, the high-flying forward was all-in at training, energized by the pride of wearing the national jersey once again.
“Excited lagi kapag para sa bayan,” Perez said. “Minsan lang ‘to sa buhay, kaya sinasagad ko na. I’m honored and grateful to represent the country.”
With his hustle and heart on full display, Gilas head coach Tim Cone confirmed Perez will suit up in their upcoming friendly against the Macau Black Bears at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Monday — though he’ll be playing limited minutes.
Still, Perez’s presence is a powerful symbol: championship hangover or not, the mission continues.