Rene Canent, one of the pioneers and legendary playmakers of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), passed away on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at the age of 80. A fierce competitor, Canent first made waves in the 1960s by leading the JRU Heavy Bombers to consecutive NCAA titles alongside Egay Gomez and Angel Patrimonio.
Transition to Professional Basketball
By 1975, he transitioned from the MICAA's Yco powerhouse to Tanduay's pioneer PBA franchise under Don Manolo Elizalde, establishing a lethal backcourt trio with Freddie Webb and Mike Bilbao over a six-season career.
Player Advocacy and Legacy
Beyond his on-court wizardry, Canent cemented his legacy as a player advocate, serving as the inaugural president of the PBA Players Association during the Leo Prieto era. He had called Los Angeles home since the 1980s.
Canent's contributions to Philippine basketball, both as a player and as a leader, have left an indelible mark on the sport. His passing is a great loss to the basketball community.
