Cone credits Jaworski’s presence for Ginebra’s series-extending win

MANILA, Philippines — Fans can partly credit Ginebra’s Game Three semis victory over TNT Thursday night to its most revered player: Sonny Jaworski.

Oh, and on the current players, too.

Having the legendary “Big J” around in the do-or-die game certainly helped the Kings’ chances, according to head coach Tim Cone.

“Boy I just hope he comes every game,” the Grand Slam mentor said. “We’ve played well every time he’s come. So yeah I think it’s great for the fans that he’s here. And that they could see him in the flesh—especially to the young fans.”

“It’s always nice to see Senator Jaworski here. Came into the locker room at halftime—he gave us a talk, gave me a hug. You feel so much better about yourself after that,” Cone added.

Even with a comfortable lead by the Kings at the end of the first half, the PBA great went on to visit the players’ locker room during mid-game break.
 

The man, the myth and the legend--Big J is making his way to the Kings' locker room this halftime. #PBA2017 #PBASemis @PhilstarNews pic.twitter.com/xySOfljCgv

— Philstar Sports Hub (@StarSportsHub) June 15, 2017

“I just said, let’s go. Adjust a little on defense,” Jaworski said when asked about what he shared from within the dugout. “Honestly they can do more, they can do better. Especially on defense. It’s just like a round robin on the other side.”

Cone and Ginebra will need to eke out two more victories to return to the Finals.

“We needed him to go there and say it on Game Four and Game Five,” Cone said in jest. “Hopefully he could keep coming.”

“It’s nice to have him here. His presence is so—he casts a big shadow. He blocks out the sun for us. He’s such a huge presence,” the coach closed.

The semis series between the Kings and KaTropa will resume on Saturday at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.