Pinoy Big Brother host Bianca Gonzalez took a trip down memory lane as she recalled the documentary tribute she created for her husband, former professional basketball player JC Intal, following his retirement from the sport.
On Instagram, Bianca reflected on the project she produced during the height of the COVID-19 lockdowns.
“Over five years ago, in the thick of the lockdown and the E-M-CQs, my husband decided to retire from playing professional basketball. 20 years playing the game, 13 of which in the PBA, and so, so many memories. 💫🚀💯,” Bianca wrote.
For the Kapamilya host, creating a documentary became the perfect way to honor JC’s journey and achievements on the court
“How could I best honor my husband and his journey? As a creative who was especially restless during the pandemic, I decided to create a documentary,” she said.
Bianca revealed that the project was completed entirely online with the help of writer Alvin Quizon and editor Adrian Abarquez via teleconference app.
“Together with the ultra-talented duo of Headwriter @alvinquizon and Master Editor @adzu_abarquez, both fans of the sport, we lovingly put together this retirement tribute done 100% virtually... pati "premiere" with family and friends done over Zoom,” she shared.
Marking five years since the documentary was made, Bianca said revisiting the project brought a new perspective, saying: “Was reminded of this recently and I wanted to share it here again. It hits differently now, five years after. Labor of love! 🤍”
JC officially announced his retirement from professional basketball in 2021, ending a two-decade career that included 13 years in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).
At the time, Bianca penned a heartfelt message celebrating her husband’s journey in sports.
"I may not have been there at the start of your 20-year basketball journey, but I am so proud and honored to be by your side and the end of it," Bianca wrote. “It makes me incredibly proud hearing so many stories of aspiring athletes who look up to you and also colleagues whose lives you've touched. You were always so genuine and kind with how you connected with them, which inspired me to do the same.”
READ: Bianca Gonzalez pens message for JC Intal after retirement
She also shared how watching JC play throughout their relationship never lost its excitement: “Every time I would sit in the coliseum with patron tickets as a perk for being your girlfriend, then wife; on the outside it may seem like ’normal lang’ but I assure you, deep inside, I would always be sooo kilig and proud to sit there, watching you, with my heart racing every time you'd hold the ball.”
“Even though you won't be playing pro basketball anymore, I promise to be your # 1 cheerleader FOR LIFE, alongside two little cheerleaders, Lucia and Carmen. We love you so much and we are so proud of you!!!! @jcintal7,” she added.
Meanwhile, in the documentary, JC opened up about embracing life after basketball and pursuing new passions beyond the court.
“I’m gonna miss playing basketball… For me every day is a challenge, every day is a new day to learn something new. Everyday natutunan ko to never settle, never be content. Ni-lolook forward ko talaga. Hanggat nabubuhay tayo, ang daming pwede nating gawin. I’ll tell my younger self you should be proud and happy, have no regrets,” he said.
He also shared his growing passion for art, which has become his focus following retirement.
“Right now, sobrang excited ako matuto sa art. My passion for basketball is, for me, the same with my passion for art. ‘Yung feeling na kapag pupunta ako sa gym is same feeling na everyday pumupunta ako sa art studio ko. Alam mo ‘yung feeling na gusto mo ‘yung ginagawa mo and hindi pilit. Parang rookie ako ngayon sa art world and there’s so much to learn,” JC said.