Even when absent, Jaworski still wields charismatic presence
Robert Jaworski has had an undeniable presence on and off the basketball court.
And on Tuesday night, 27 years removed from his last game and even while battling a rare blood disease and being forced to stay home, the iconic playmaker, whose figure the PBA’s logo was fashioned after, still wielded that same charisma.
Through his son and namesake Robert “Dodot” Jr. and a mini-exhibit chronicling his storied career, the Big J was fondly remembered as the PBA Press Corps (PBAPC) hailed the Toyota and Ginebra legend with its Lifetime Achievement Award.
“This award is not just a reflection of my achievements, but also a celebration of the millions of Filipinos who have been part of my journey,” Jaworski said in the speech read by his son.
“To the league that has been my home for many years, you allowed me to grow, to fight, to win and even to lose. It is a reminder of the incredible journey I have had in the enduring impact of basketball on all our lives,” he added.
Jaworski is the only other recipient of the honor, following Alaska owner Wilfred Uytengsu, who took home the award in 2019.
“Reflecting on my career, I am truly grateful for the opportunities I have had and the people who have supported me,” the former playing coach, now 78, added.
From UE Warrior years
Jaworski’s varsity days to his exploits in the international scene were captured by a collection of keepsakes curated by Dr. Michael Rico Mesina and his wife Ellen.
“I went through my collection immediately and thought of the nice memorabilia that we could share with fans. The collection here ranges from when he was with the University of the East and his formative professional years in the PBA with Toyota,” Mesina, a radiologist by profession, told the Inquirer.
“Some of the attendees here wanted to get some items—particularly coaches Tim Cone and Alfrancis Chua,” he said with a chuckle.
Asked if he gave the two beloved mentors some highly valued trinkets, Mesina replied with a chuckle: “Their smiles are priceless for me.”
The younger Jaworski and Mesina also shared a light moment ahead of the festivities, which was the 30th in the Corps’ history, with the Pasig vice mayor telling the latter how important his work is for the basketball culture in the Philippines.
“Vice told me, ‘The Philippine basketball community is lucky to have someone to invest his time and effort to bring memorabilia that are pieces of history,’” Mesina shared.
“That it’s important that we can still go back to those moments in history so we can continue to appreciate the things the legends of the past have done for the players of the present.”
The younger Jaworski later shared that the Big J has been regaining his strength, and is currently in a better shape compared to how he was last year.
“I’m thankful for everyone praying for his health to improve. Again, I hope these prayers continue, so God willing we can have Jawo with us again,” he added.
