Did you know that one of the first Kagay-anons to break into the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) was a former standout from Pilgrim Institute High School—now Pilgrim Christian College—in Cagayan de Oro? Woodrow Balani, a 6’3″ forward, was discovered during the Palarong Pambansa and recruited by top collegiate teams like Letran and De La Salle University. However, he eventually chose to play for the University of the Visayas in Cebu, where he made his mark. In 1982, Balani joined the PBA as a direct hire rookie, suiting up for Gallerie Dominique then Great Taste—where he won two PBA championships—and finally, Alaska during his four-year professional career. Alongside Marlowe Jacutin, Balani was among the first from Cagayan de Oro to reach the country’s premier basketball league.
Balani’s reputation as a defensive specialist often put him up against imports.
Balani playing for Gallerie Dominique (left) is shown challenging another Kagay-anon Marlowe Jacutin (#8) of Gilbey’s Gin.
Despite having a short 4-year PBA career, Balani won two championships with Great Taste Coffee. He is shown below in the upper right.
Led by Fil-Am Ricardo Brown, Great Taste was a dominant team in the mid-80s where Balani was a role player.
Balani (top, 2nd from right) with the powerhouse Great Taste Coffeemakers that included Team Captain Ricardo Brown, William “Bogs” Adornado, Bernardo “Joy” Carpio, Manny Victorino, Joaquin “Chito” Loyzaga, Arnie Tuadles, Jimmy Manansala, Frankie Lim, Joel Banal and Alejo “Ponky” Alolor.
Balani (2nd from left) is shown with former Alaska coach Tim Cone and former player Elmer Cabahug (left) during a reunion event.
Balani is now into the fishing business.
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