Golden opportunity beckons Ginebra role players

Barangay Ginebra coach Tim Cone feels bad over the departure of LA Tenorio and Jamie Malonzo.

But he’s looking at this problem like a glass half-full.

In a message to DAILY TRIBUNE from Jeddah late Thursday, the noted American mentor stressed that the departure of Tenorio and Malonzo could pave the way for the emergence of future stars like Jayson David, Jeremiah Gray and Aljon Mariano in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).

Tenorio walked away from the Kings after being appointed as head coach of Magnolia while Malonzo signed a deal with the Kyoto Hannaryz in the Japan B. League. The veteran playmaker has yet to issue a statement as he is still in Las Vegas for the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas talent identification program while Malonzo is with Cone and Gilas Pilipinas for the 31st FIBA Asia Cup.

Cone admitted that he is “disappointed” with Malonzo’s decision.

“We’re certainly disappointed Jamie wanted to leave Ginebra,” he said, referring to the 6-foot-7 former De La Salle University star, whom they acquired from NorthPort in 2022 together with Von Pessumal in exchange for Arvin Tolentino, Jeff Chan, Prince Caperal, Kent Salado, and a Season 48 1st round pick.

“But we’re never going to hold back a player who wants to better his situation. We wish him well.”

But Cone stressed that there’s a silver lining behind these heartbreaking departures.

In fact, their replacements in David and Gray are more than ready to step up while Mariano can provide veteran leadership and stability together with the likes of Scottie Thompson, Maverick Ahanmisi, Japeth Aguilar, Stephen Holt and Troy Rosario.

Cone believes the Kings will remain formidable entering the league’s 50th season due to their talented role players.

David, for instance, has been sitting at the end of the very deep Ginebra’s bench for the past two seasons. But when he was given the chance, he exploded for 25 points, nine rebounds, three steals and two assists in a 131-106 victory over NorthPort in the Philippine Cup on 30 April.

“My mindset is to always be ready whether I’m in the lineup or not,” said the 6-foot-4 David who was spotted by Ginebra trainer Kirk Collier after seeing some flashes of brilliance in the Kings’ 3x3 squad.

Cone said David, Gray and, possibly, Mariano could get their chances in the coming Philippine Cup starting 5 October.

“Now this will give others a chance to step up and fill the void,” said Cone, who has a reputation of keeping a tight rotation that often leads to the benching of talented players.

“Players like Jeremiah, Aljon, Jason and others.”