Big J thrilled on the idea of coaching Gilas

MANILA, Philippines – The Living Legend Sonny Jaworski has thrown in his hat in the open race for the next national team coach.

Jaworski, who graced the All In Charity Game headlined by former NBA MVP Allen Iverson, was thrilled on the idea of returning as a national coach.

“My gosh, it’s a great honor if it will happen pero yung sinabi niyo lang eh nasarapan na ako,” Jaworski told reporters when pressed on the possibility of returning as the national head coach.

Jaworski handled the first all-pro team sent in the Asian Games back in 1990 where his team ended up with the silver medal behind China.

But Jaworski, who has not coached since he was elected as a senator in 1998, tempered expectations.

 “It’s going to be a tough job but I think taking a serious look at it is not a bad idea,” Jaworski said. “If you get the support of the group in basketball and the general public, you can’t go wrong.  

He cautioned the public though not to pre-empt the selection committee formed by Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas tasked to select the head coach and the national players pool for the next FIBA Asia Men’s Championship in China next year.

“Because it’s [coaching the national team] a calling pero huwag nating pangunahan yan,” Jaworski said.

Though he is thrilled at the prospect, the former Ginebra playing-coach is also open to work event in the background in any capacity to help the national team.

“Why not? Anytime, tatapikin lang ako,” Jaworski said.

The Living Legend did his share in the previous Gilas team visiting them at practice and giving them an inspirational talk in the lead up to last year’s FIBA Asia Men’s Championship where they ended up with the silver and the ticket to the FIBA World Cup.  

“Sabi ko nga sa Gilas team during the FIBA Asia Championship, I told them if you want to be remembered as a basketball player by your family and friends, that’s the best thing that could happen. Represent the country and represent it well. And they did,” Jaworski said.