Doug Kramer calls it quits after 12 years in PBA

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After his decade-long career, Doug Kramer has decided to hang up his sneakers in the PBA for good.

In an Instagram post, the Phoenix Pulse big-man explained that he is retiring from professional basketball not because his body ran out of gas, but because he wanted to give other players “a chance” to take his slot.

“I’m leaving knowing I’m still healthy, with no major injuries throughout my career. I don’t want to wait till my body is breaking down, or till mentally I’m drained of the daily routine of training. I’m moving on because I choose to do so,” he wrote.

“Basketball is not forever. And I never made it to become my only avenue. It’s very temporal. I’m 36 years young and still so much to do,” he continued.

Playing basketball has indeed brought him so much unforgettable experiences and life-long relationships that he would not trade for the world.

If he did not end up being a professional basketball player, Kramer said he might not have the opportunity to travel the world.

“I’ve played all around the Philippines, some parts of Asia and even in the US. I started this journey playing basketball in Baguio City, and eventually made my move in Manila to play for Ateneo.

That was 2002, 17 years ago!” he recalled.

Kramer shared he was supposed to join the military but basketball pushed him into another direction and eventually shaped him into the person he is today.

If he did not play for Ateneo, Kramer said he wouldn’t be able to meet the other half of his heart, Chesca, with whom he has three children — Kendra, Scarlett and Gavin.

“What a different life I would have led if it weren’t for this sport,” the former Ateneo star said.

Kramer’s team, Phoenix pulled out a 120-117 win over Blackwater in the PBA Governors’ Cup on Friday, November 15, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Kramer tallied three points and 10 rebounds as he wrapped up his 12-year career.