TIM Cone says Mark Caguioa reinventing his game will be one of the keys to Barangay Ginebra’s potential success with the triangle.
The new Gin Kings coach said the Ginebra superstar, known to be at the forefront of the team’s run-and-gun game in the past, will have to rely more on his already proven mid-range game.
They Said It!
“Again Caguioa has done his part for Ginebra, just like other Ginebra players who have done their part, as well as Helterbrand. In my opinion, Ellis, Barracael, and newcomer Thompson must inherit the role that Cone is planning for Caguioa. Mark's time has gone already and it is time for his teammates to take the lead for Ginebra." - Henry Imperio
“A little bit,” Cone said on Monday in their first day of practice when asked if Caguioa has to reinvent his game.
“He’s not going to be the fast and the furious,” the multi-titled coach added referring to Caguioa's longtime partnership with fellow speedster Jayjay Helterbrand.
Cone particularly feels Caguioa should play more like his former Alaska ward Jojo Lastimosa.
“I think he’ll be more Jojo Lastimosa-like,” Cone said. “I think he has a good power game and he’s strong and physical, got a great mid-range game.”
Those qualities are enough to convince Cone that the longtime face of Ginebra will thrive in the triangle.
“He’s built for what we do,” he said. “I think he’s going to have a lot of fun with this offense.”
[See Scottie Thompson selection reminds Cone of Abarrientos dilemma in '93]
But Cone was quick to add neither Caguioa nor Greg Slaughter and Japeth Aguilar will be the focal point of the offense invented by Tex Winter.
“It’s not going to be Greg-centric or Japeth-centric or even Mark-centric,” he said. “It’s going to be doing it all together and everybody getting their opportunities. And if we’re doing that, then we’re going to be successful.”
Although already familiar with the system when Jeff Cariaso handled the squad, Caguioa will be more willing to learn about it, especially when the league’s most successful coach is teaching.
They Said It!
“Just let Caguioa retire. If Ginebra really wants to have the Cone era smooth sailing, it is the best option." - Mikhael Anjelu Magana
“This is coach Tim,” said Caguioa, who granted a short interview before leaving. “ I’m not thinking about a lot of stuff besides the triangle. As an individual, I just want to work hard and study the triangle…and get the right chemistry.”
“I’ll have a better interview next time … when we win a championship,” he added before entering the elevator.
[See Uyloan, Urbiztondo, Lanete a source of inspiration for undrafted players]