TIM Cone was among the first people LA Tenorio consulted as he contemplated assuming the role as playing-coach of Magnolia.
Cone didn't mince words on his former player and told him to grab the once in a lifetime opportunity.
"Don't think about it. Just do it," said Cone, recalling as Tenorio opened up about the matter during the opening window of the FIBA World Cup Asian qualifiers.
'i thought it was a great thing."
READ: Tenorio says Magnolia playing-coach role 'not easy, but doable'
Three weeks after, the 41-year-old Tenorio finally made his playing-coach debut for the Hotshots in their PBA Philippine Cup game against TNT Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Tropang 5G though, spoiled Tenorio's special day by denying the Hotshots a Top 4 finish behind a 94-83 win.
Tenorio played for 13 minutes and finished with four points, two rebounds, and three assists.
Cone was no longer surprised with the way Tenorio played.
"When we were in the Guam window, LA was joining us in every practice and he was killing us," recalled Cone.
"He was with the scout team and he would kill us on that team. The guy can still play, there's no doubt about it."
Cone sees Tenorio assuming the same role through the playoffs with Jerom Lastimosa and Paul Lee still doubtful due to injuries.
'So it's always fun to see him as a player-coach. And I hope he continues to play through the playoffs if Paul Lee doesn't come back."
The playoffs start on Christmas Day at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
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