First love never dies, even if it’s love of sports. In the case of our latest featured personality in e-Frequency’s Kapamilya Crossover Anton Roxas, sports continue to be present in his life as his love of basketball has opened opportunities for him.

Anton used to play UAAP Juniors basketball but now thrives off the court. He amazes sports fans with his storytelling, his basketball knowledge, and how he can make viewers feel right at home during the games with his analysis of plays and as well as trivia on players.

Here’s our chat with Anton Roxas, Mr. Pure Business himself, one of S+A’s premier sports commentators, who is also one of the Kilos Kapamilya Basketball Tournament’s top scorers this year.

Tell us about your work here in ABS-CBN.

I’m primarily a senior anchor for S+A. I cover the NCAA, UAAP, Premier Volleyball League, Beach Volleyball Republic, URCC, and PINOY PRIDE among others. I am also an alternate anchor for The Score, which airs weeknights at 10 pm on S+A. Aside from this, I am utilized by the department as a host, voice over talent and writer. 

Outside of S+A, I host the online show, “Down The Line” with Dennise Lazaro on sports.abs-cbn.com. Dennise and I are also the hosts of “S+A First Five” which is the flagship sports program of the S+A Global channel which airs all over the world via The Filipino Channel (TFC).

I’ve been with ABN-CBN since June 2009 and I can proudly say that I have the best job in the world because I get to do what I love on a daily basis. 

What led you to your current job in ABS-CBN?

I auditioned as a UAAP courtside reporter back in 2009. After submitting my resumé, a few days later, I received a text from ABS-CBN Sports asking me if I wanted to try out as an anchor. So, I ended up auditioning for both roles! Thankfully, they hired me as an anchor and I’ve been with the network ever since.

What was your first day like?

My first day was a dream come true. I had always imagined working as a sports commentator, being somebody like Quinito Henson or Chino Trinidad. So, for me to finally be one of them felt so surreal. The late Butch Maniego was my very first TV partner. I remember asking him before we went on air if we could do a run through. Unfortunately, he rejected my request and said, “let’s keep it fresh.” Anyway, we finally went live and I remember buckling before leading the discussion to an interview. I though he was going to get mad but instead, he looked at me, nodded as if to say, “it’s okay.” After that, I started getting more comfortable and relished in the experience.

What were the biggest challenges for you as you transition from playing to your current work?

The biggest challenge is missing the opportunity to play the game. I can’t deny the fact that I once wanted to be like the players I cover now. But, later on, I’ve realized that my experience as a former UAAP Jrs. Basketball player helped me in understanding that I can play a role in helping out these players achieve the dreams I once had. I am proud to tell their stories to the world through my work. 

What lessons from your playing days have been useful in your current work?

My UAAP Jrs. Basketball career only lasted two years. I played for De La Salle-Zobel in Season 65 and Season 66. Those two years went by so fast! If I had a time machine, I would go back and take every drill in practice more seriously and work harder at improving my game than I did before. That type of mentality is what I carry with me today at ABS-CBN Sports. I’ve dedicated myself to doing the best possible job with every coverage. I love my work with all my heart and I am willing to go the extra mile when it comes to preparation and improvement.

What do you miss the most about the UAAP?

I miss being a part of a team with an entire school that supports you in achieving your goal. Just hearing the drums at the Araneta Coliseum and seeing my classmates, friends, and family cheer me on while I am on the court are priceless memories I keep with me to this day.

What is your best moment as an athlete?

Getting my first La Salle jersey was my best moment as an athlete. I remember when I was trying out for the team, I had to go through a series of practices to earn my spot. It was a long process. I remember feeling so jealous because other players had their La Salle jerseys on while I was practicing with normal basketball gear. There was a time during the try-outs when I got sick and was unable to practice. When I got better, I showed up and coincidentally, our coach, Juno Sauler started distributing new uniforms that day I returned to practice. When he was handing out the jerseys, I remember staring into space, feeling down because I did not think he had a jersey for me. Then, suddenly, Coach Juno called my name. “Anton,” he said. Then he handed me my first ever La Salle jersey. It was one of the happiest moments of my life. It was the culmination of my hard work and dedication to the game I love.

Do you miss competition? How do you keep fit?

I miss it every day. But, I’m thankful to still be able to play basketball in pick-games and various leagues. I stay fit by working out at the gym at least three times a week. 

Who do you think will take the crown in the NCAA and UAAP this season?

We’ll see. ;)

What do you love about being a Kapamilya?

Being a Kapamilya has opened so many doors for me. Today, I get to do so many things that I never thought I would be doing. ABS-CBN has provided me with the keys to unlock my potential and live my dreams. I am forever grateful to everybody in the organization who have given me great opportunities to fulfill my goals and I look forward to spending my entire career here.

Fellow Kapamilyas can catch Mr. Pure Business, Anton Roxas, on S+A mainly on NCAA, the country’s oldest collegiate league, which airs every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Aside from that, you can look forward to his appearances on “The Score” and the ongoing Premier Volleyball League Collegiate Conference.

As for the last crossover, I’ll leave you with a clue… It’s hammer time!

This article originally appeared on e-frequency.abs-cbn.com entitled "Anchorman"
By: Pio Garcia, Corporate Communications

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