Things go full circle for Meralco import Allen Durham as he heads back to Japan to take on his former team Ryukyu in EASL action.
Allen Durham is set to have a homecoming from his former team Ryukyu Golden Kings as the Meralco Bolts face off with the Japan B.LEAGUE powerhouse in the East Asia Super League next week.
Before his most recent stint with the Bolts in the PBA, Durham played three straight B.LEAGUE seasons with the Golden Kings — including a run to the title in 2023.
Not only that, but Durham found himself in the same position a year ago, except that he was Ryukyu’s reinforcement in their game against Meralco in Okinawa There, the Golden Kings beat Meralco 89-61, with Durham going for 16 points, nine rebounds, and six assists.
Now on the other side of things, Durham is excited to get back into the fold at Okinawa Arena, albeit in a different jersey.
“I’m excited. I’m excited to see my guys and get back to Okinawa Arena,” Durham told Ryukyu during an interview with the team last week after a Meralco win over the Macau Black Bears.
“Yeah, I’m excited to see everybody, I can’t wait… I’ll see you guys in a couple of weeks.”
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In the video, the Golden Kings gave Durham a familiar gift, with a stuffed toy of Ryukyu’s mascot Gordy.
Durham was delighted at the gift and spoke highly of the animated figure.
“Gordy is one of my favorite mascots. I’m really happy, thank you so much,” he quipped.
Now though, Durham will be visiting Okinawa Arena as a foe. Personal relationships will have to be set aside as he tries to lead the Bolts to their second win in the EASL this year.
Meralco faces off with the Ryukyu Golden Kings on Wednesday, October 16.