Two of the PBA’s most respected veterans have officially stepped away from the game. Ryan Reyes and Sean Anthony have both announced their retirement, ending professional basketball careers that lasted more than 15 years each.

Their exits mark the end of an era — not one built on flashy plays or headline-grabbing stats, but on consistency, hard work, and team-first basketball.

Ryan Reyes: Quiet Strength, Defensive Backbone

Reyes entered the PBA in 2007 as the third overall pick by Sta. Lucia, and he immediately made his presence felt, winning Rookie of the Year. But his true legacy was built with Talk ’N Text, where he spent most of his career, collecting eight championships and earning a reputation as one of the best perimeter defenders in the league.

He wasn’t a loud player. He didn’t chase the spotlight. But coaches and teammates knew they could trust him — to guard the best scorers, to fight for every loose ball, and to do the little things that win games.

Even as younger, faster players came into the league, Reyes adapted his role and stayed relevant — coming off the bench, mentoring younger teammates, and leading by example.

Sean Anthony: The PBA’s Ultimate Role Player

If there’s one word that defines Sean Anthony’s career, it’s grit.

Originally from Canada, Anthony became known in the PBA for his tough, physical style. He did the dirty work — rebounding, defending, setting screens, diving for loose balls — and he did it with pride.

Over his 15-plus seasons, he played for several teams, including Powerade, NorthPort, Meralco, and Phoenix, always adapting to new roles and systems. He didn’t mind coming off the bench or guarding bigger players. Whatever the team needed, he stepped up.

Anthony wasn’t a superstar in the traditional sense, but he was the kind of player every championship team needs. Now, with retirement ahead of him, he’s turning his focus to family and a new career in management consulting, with plans to settle in Vancouver.

Leaving the Game the Right Way

For both Reyes and Anthony, this isn’t just the end of a basketball chapter — it’s the close of careers built on professionalism, effort, and humility.

Neither player made a big deal about their retirement. No farewell tour. No drama. Just a quiet, classy goodbye — true to how they carried themselves throughout their careers.

They leave behind more than stats or trophies. They leave a legacy of how to be a pro — how to show up, stay ready, play your role, and lead by example.

The PBA Will Miss Them — But Their Impact Remains

As the league continues to evolve with younger stars taking the spotlight, the loss of veterans like Reyes and Anthony will be felt. Players like them help shape locker rooms and keep team culture strong.

Their careers remind us that success isn’t just about scoring titles or MVP awards. Sometimes, it’s about doing the hard work no one else wants to do — and doing it for years.

They may not be on the court anymore, but their impact — on teams, teammates, and fans — will last long after their final games.