19/08/2025
Lucero Gears Up for PBA Season 50 Amid Magnolia Shake-Up
Zavier Lucero admits he’s exchanged a few conversations with new Magnolia Hotshots head coach LA Tenorio — and each time, the young forward’s excitement grows over what lies ahead for the team after a whirlwind of changes.
The sting of last conference’s early exit still lingers, a reminder of what could have been. But instead of sulking over missed chances, Lucero has chosen to turn the offseason into an opportunity to regroup and prepare for the PBA’s milestone 50th season, which is expected to tip off this October.
“Preseason prep has been good, being able to still work around my knee and polish things that I need to work on. My handles and my shot are a constant work in progress,” Lucero shared in a phone interview.
After the Hotshots’ quarterfinal loss to TNT last June 21, the 6-foot-6 forward flew back to his hometown of Vallejo, California. What followed was a much-needed breather with family — but also a relentless grind inside the gym.
“I’ve been dealing with patellar tendinitis due to high usage in the last two conferences,” he revealed. “The only goal this summer is to work with my physical therapist and try to get rid of it.”
Lucero’s recovery plan is no small feat. Six days a week, he stuck to a strict training regimen — equal parts therapy and skill work — all while keeping a close eye on the dramatic shifts happening within the Magnolia camp.
With the roster shake-up and Tenorio now calling the shots, Lucero knows the upcoming season carries a different weight. For him, it’s not just about bouncing back from injury, but also about seizing the chance to grow into a bigger role for a team looking to redefine its future.
