Multi-titled and decorated former TNT star Ranidel De Ocampo is feeling stoked with the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) franchise honoring his contributions by retiring his jersey.

De Ocampo is set to have his No. 33 jersey immortalized, cementing his status as one of the league’s legends.

“Very proud because not everyone is given this kind of recognition. Proud because I’ll be a legend,” the 44-year-old forward said when asked for his reaction to the rare opportunity to add to his PBA legacy.

De Ocampo, who now serves as one of the assistant coaches of Chot Reyes for Tropang 5G, will formally see his jersey number elevated in the jersey retirement ceremony set today at halftime of Game 3 between TNT and Meralco in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup semifinals.

“It feels good to be called a legend, a PBA legend,” added the fourth overall pick in the 2004 Draft.

The six-time PBA champion expressed gratitude for the distinction of being only the third TNT player to have his jersey retired, joining Jimmy Alapag (No. 3) and Harvey Carey (No. 4) in the elite club.

“It feels like reaping the rewards of all your hard work,” the Saint Francis of Assisi College product said.

De Ocampo thanked TNT team manager Jojo Lastimosa for initiating the move as well as team owner Manny V. Pangilinan and TNT team governor Ricky Vargas for giving their nods.

He was drafted by FedEx but was traded to the then-Talk ‘N Text Tropang Texters in the middle of the 2008-2009 Philippine Cup.

His all-around play and revolutionizing of the stretch four position made him a pivotal cog in TNT’s six titles.

De Ocampo was named Finals Most Valuable Player twice and awarded Best Player of the Conference during the 2014 Governors’ Cup.

His also served the national team, helping Gilas Pilipinas take silver in the 2013 and 2015 FIBA Asia Championship and also saw action in the 2014 FIBA World Cup. De Ocampo won gold in the 2003 Southeast Asian Games and a championship in the 2012 Jones Cup.

De Ocampo also credited his family, fans and TNT supporters for serving as his inspiration during his playing years and current role as TNT deputy.

“Behind my successful career is my family, my parents and siblings. And of course, the solid TNT fans and Team RDO Exclusive. I’m thankful to them for their support even if I’m already done with my playing career,” said De Ocampo, who retired in April 2020.