Ginebra San Miguel never-say-die spirit lives in these three ganado hardcourt heroes

IT'S one of the most awaited moments in Philippine basketball: Barangay Ginebra San Miguel falls behind, often by double-digit deficits, against a tough opponent and, just when it seemed all hope is lost, comes out with renewed energy and wins the game.

That’s ‘Never Say Die’ at work, and that spirit is ingrained in all Ginebra San Miguel players. It’s in their DNA to never give up until the final buzzer. No three players epitomize this spirit more than Robert Jaworski, Bal David, and Mark Caguioa. These three players from generations of Gin Kings have achieved legendary status among Ginebra San Miguel fans. Just like superheroes, they’re known more for their respective monikers.

Robert Jaworski, #7
The Big J is the embodiment of the ‘Never Say Die’ spirit. During a game against a national-calibre team more than 30 years ago, Jaworksi got hit in the lip by a wayward elbow. He left the game to get stitches, but came back in the fourth quarter. With his lower lip bandaged and his No. 7 jersey still bloodied, he led Ginebra San Miguel to a come-from-behind win.

He’s a fiery competitor who sacrificed everything to win the game. It was that will to win that endeared him to fans and made him the legend that he is today. Jaworski still inspires thousands to chant “GI-NEB-RA” even up to this day.

Bal David, #1
David barely filled out his jersey, but what he lacked in physical stature, the lithe guard made up for in heart. He earned the moniker “The Flash” because he used his speed to get past defenders and make plays for his team. He was also "The Buzzer Beater" who shot impossible long-range bombs that broke the hearts of opponents and their fans. David was exciting to watch because he was always flying up and down the court with boundless energy. He was the floor general that controlled the run-and-gun tempo of Ginebra San Miguel in the '90s. He was a fearless leader who fittingly wore the No. 1 jersey.

Mark Caguioa, #47
"The Spark," as he is known among fans, is an offensive dynamo that can explode at a moment’s notice. When his shot is falling, he’s almost impossible to stop. He has a killer jumper and a smooth floater, both of which he uses to score points in bunches.

More than his talent, it's Caguioa's passion that makes him a fan favorite. He’s an intense player that wears his heart on his sleeve. He inspires his team to play hard even from the bench. These three legends each lived the Never Say Die spirit during their respective stints with the team.

Today, there’s a new generation leading the way for Ginebra San Miguel. One of them is Scottie Thompson: a hardworking young player that changes a game through his constant effort and hustle. He hasn’t earned his moniker yet, but it’s clear that he’s a future hero for Ginebra San Miguel.

Inspired by these #NSD stories? Ginebra San Miguel, through its Ganado sa Buhay campaign, wants to offer an opportunity to loyal fans to grab a piece of history by collecting jerseys. Get a chance to wear the jerseys of these hardcourt heroes by joining the Ganado Classics three-decade jersey collection promo! Check out the handy infographic below for a complete set of promo mechanics:

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