Cone lauds Standhardinger

I’m proud of him. He showed me he really wants to be here.

CHRISTIAN Standhardinger remains professional following his move to NorthPort.

Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone lauded the professionalism of Christian Standhardinger, who attended their practice last Monday barely few hours after being traded to NorthPort.

And like a protective father, Cone came to defense of his Filipino-German forward, who begged off from doing media interviews and immediately left the Meralco gym following their training.

“We were not sure if he was going to come. And I’m thrilled that he did. And he could have easily said I don’t want to or I don’t want to deal with the press but he still chose to show up,” Cone said.

“This would have been a good excuse not to come, but he still chose to be here. I’m proud of him. He showed that he really wants to be here.”

San Miguel Beer agreed to send Standhardinger for Mo Tautuaa in a one-on-one deal that was officially approved by the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) yesterday.

After the practice, Cone allowed the 6-foot-8 forward to leave early.

“I told him he could leave early. I asked him if he wants to be interviewed, but he said he will just leave early,” Cone said.

“He was great. He was smiling and happy. He’s a pro. He’s not a rookie. He’s been through wars. He played in Germany and all over the world so he knows what the business is about,” he added.

Cone said the addition of Standhardinger would make Batang Pier better. NorthPort is currently at the bottom of team standings with a 2-4 mark.

“I think he’s gonna be a monster in NorthPort. It’s tough to back up June Mar, a five-time MVP (Most Valuable Player). It’s like being a back up for Michael Jordan. Nobody knows who you are. Nobody cares,” he said.

“So, I think he’s going to go out there becomes his own man and put up monster numbers. That’s just my opinion.”