THE feeling is mutual.
This summed up Blackwater coach Jeff Cariaso’s reaction when their import George King made it public how he is enjoying his time with the Bossing in the PBA 49th Season Governors’ Cup.
“I appreciate that,” said Cariaso, when asked for reaction when the 30-year-old King said he is the best coach he has played for in his career.
READ: George King praises Jeff Cariaso: ‘The best coach I played for’
King is largely credited for Blackwater’s four victories including on Saturday when he had 49 points in the Bossing’s 111-94 win over San Miguel. King actually joined the team after the underwhelming performance of their original import Ricky Ledo during his first two games.
“Honestly, you (Cariaso) are the best coach that I played for,” King said. “In these span of five, six games, the offense and defense is very simple but effective. I just want to say thank you. It’s been a real joy. My games follow because of that.”
Cariaso said King’s personality, such as his investment and engagement with the team and his willingness to learn, is what exactly what coaches want in an import.
“George is one of those guys that when you use the word coachable, it’s kinda used a lot and it’s used in a manner where it’s just focused on the court stuff. Yes, that’s true, but I’m talking about even off court.”
“I’m talking about discussion in our coaches’ lounge. I’m talking about as we prepare the game plan or anything else. He’s always been and has been since Day One and just a very easy guy to talk to,” said Cariaso.
King’s presence has also attracted learnings from the team that thirsty for a playoff run, the most recent one during the 2022-23 Philippine Cup.
“He wants to learn. He wants to improve. And we appreciate that he is leading and he is improving here. As much as he is learning, he is teaching a lot of good things too. We are lucky to have him,” said Cariaso.
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