Veteran Sonny Thoss ‘pretty much set to retire’, says Cariaso

Sonny Thoss will not be around when Alaska convenes in training as preparation for the 46th PBA in June.

According to Aces head coach Jeff Cariaso, the 39-year old Thoss has begged off from joining the squad when they get the go-signal to conduct full physical training as he is now leaning towards the direction of calling it a career.

“Sonny will not join the team when we resume,” Cariaso told GMA News Online in a message.

“Honestly, it’s not official but he’s pretty much set to retire.”

If made official, Thoss will be leaving behind a colorful career.

He only saw action for one team since getting picked by Alaska in 2004 and was able to steer the franchise to numerous feats including three titles while also winning one Finals MVP plum in the 2013 Commissioner’s Cup.

The 6-foot-7 banger was also a participant in the PBA All-Star event for 12 times and was a member of the Mythical First Team for two years in a row in 2010 and 2011.

Although he was an essential piece in the team for the past years, the former fifth overall pick decided to skip the 2020 Philippine Cup in a bubble in Clark, citing health and safety protocols reasons.

At the time, Cariaso said that Thoss was reluctant to see action in the bubble tournament since there’s no COVID-19 vaccine available yet.

This could also be the reason for Thoss' looming decision to finally hang his sneakers after 17 years of competitive basketball.

“I truly believe it’s for the same reason. Safety from Covid,” added Cariaso, whose team finished sixth in the previous conference. —JMB, GMA News