Latest players to ‘Greatest’ list welcomed by legends
The PBA on Friday formally recognized the 10 individuals chosen to become a part of the 50 Greatest Players list.
And for Alvin Patrimonio and Johnny Abarrientos, who were part of the first batch of this elite class, they are pleased to see former teammates and foes finally get the due recognition.
“The timing couldn’t be better because it’s the 50th anniversary of the league,” Patrimonio told the Inquirer, as Nelson Asaytono, whom he the four-time MVP teamed up with at Purefoods before becoming foes when “The Bull” played for Swift/Sunkist and San Miguel Beer, finally got the nod after being one of the big snubs in the league’s 25 and 40 Greatest Players.
Abe King, who played with “The Captain” at Purefoods in his final two years in the league, was also chosen for his stellar years with Toyota and Great Taste.
Meanwhile, Abarrientos will have more members of Alaska’s 1996 Grand Slam on the exclusive club following the selection of Bong Hawkins and Jeffrey Cariaso.
Hawkins was among the integral members of the Milkmen’s ’90s dynasty, while Cariaso may have been considered more for his post-Grand Slam days when he blossomed at Mobiline, Tanduay and Coca-Cola.
“At some point, their time to get this award will come and it finally happened,” Abarrientos said in a separate Inquirer interview. “It’s really a blessing.”
Also picked were the late Arnie Tuadles, Danny Seigle, Manny Victorino, Yoyoy Villamin and current stars Scottie Thompson and June Mar Fajardo.
They were recognized during a gala event held at Solaire North in Quezon City, two days after the league’s 50th birthday was celebrated with a retro-themed doubleheader at Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
Pioneers and individuals who have long been part of the league were also recognized in the gala event as part of the event.
Meanwhile, action in the Philippine Cup resumes on Saturday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium with two of the semifinalists from the previous conference finally seeing action.
NorthPort battles Terrafirma in the opener at 5 p.m. before Rain or Shine squares off with NLEX at 7:30 p.m.
