Mac Tallo excited to play for Cebu Greats

Mac Tallo has returned to his hometown and joined the Cebu Greats in the MPBL, aiming to help rebuild the team into a source of provincial pride and keep their playoff hopes alive for the 2025 season.

The crafty Cebuano guard, recently released by the Pangasinan Heatwaves, joins a retooled Cebu squad under head coach Junthy Valenzuela. The team features experienced players including JR Quiñahan, Reed Juntilla, Paul Desiderio, Jun Manzo, and Reeve Ugsang.

Tallo, the former Cesafi MVP and once top-ranked Filipino in FIBA 3x3, expressed strong excitement about representing Cebu, stating it was a long-term goal. He revealed that in the past, no team owners approached him to play for his hometown, and he was even willing to lower his asking price for a solid Cebu management.

His confidence stems from recent changes; local businessman Samson Lato took over the franchise after salary issues under previous management caused an exodus of players and coaches. With the foundation now more stable, Tallo is determined to stay long-term and help build a legitimate contender.

Tallo stated his intention to convince other Cebuano players on different MPBL teams to return home, emphasizing the need to step out of comfort zones to build a competitive southern squad.

Currently holding a 4–13 record, the Cebu Greats face a challenging path to the playoffs, needing to win all their remaining 10 games starting Thursday, July 3, against Biñan Tatak Gel. Despite playing for various MPBL teams like Bacolod, Manila, Abra, Davao, and Pangasinan, Tallo affirmed that playing for home is unmatched.