Converge FiberXers’ Alex Cabagnot. Photo from Rom Anzures, ABS-CBN News

MANILA — Alex Cabagnot is set to return to the Philippines.

After stints in the Korean Basketball League and in Taiwan, the multiple-time PBA champion will be making his comeback to the league with the Converge FiberXers after he signed a one-season contract with them.

"After The Asian Tournament, I was speaking with Boss Jacob [Lao], and he asked me if I could join and blend in with the guys, and of course, I went," said the former San Miguel Beermen star during the Season 49 Media Day in Pasay on Tuesday. 

Cabagnot, who is now with the team that has interim head coach Franco Atienza and assistants Rajko Toroman and Charles Tiu after the exit of Aldin Ayo, revealed that his deal with them was done so quickly that he didn't even think he would be able to attend the Media Day.

"I went there and then kahapon, I signed. It was that fast. Actually, I didn't think that I was gonna get a jersey this fast, and I didn't think I was gonna be here," he said.

Cabagnot had the blessing of the Taiwan Mustangs' management and its head coach, former PBA mentor Chris Gavina, to return to the Philippines.

"Nagpaalam muna ako sa mga Taiwan bosses ko," said Cabagnot, who once even battled against Gilas Pilipinas with the Mustangs in a friendly game. 

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"They gave me an opportunity to showcase my skills. I think Boss Jacob saw me and got interested when we played against Gilas. Then nagpaalam muna ako sa mga Taiwan bosses 'cause they were very accommodating, and coach Chris Gavina is a good friend of mine."

"He said: 'You know what? It'll be great.' You know, this is probably the last time. I wanna end my 20th year in the PBA," said Cabagnot.

Now that he is set to return, and despite the extensive resume that he has, Cabagnot emphasized that his priority with the FiberXers is to contribute and not flaunt the scoring prowess that he has been known for throughout his career. 

"I hope I can help the team in any way. They've been together for a while, and I'm coming as a newbie, but I hope I can help the team," he said.

And aside from serving as one of the veterans of the youthful Converger squad, Cabagnot is looking at this as an opportunity to end his basketball career in the PBA. 

"It's kinda surreal because I thought I wasn't gonna get to finish it here," he bared. "I have some offers in other countries, but I said na sana matapos ang aking 20th year sa PBA, injury-free, and smiling."

"I thought I was just gonna venture off. I was in Korea, then I was close to the Taiwan bosses. But then, this came along, I couldn't pass on it, and it wasn't on the plans at all," he said.