SMART CLARK GIGA CITY — The long wait was definitely worth it.
For 13 years, Mark Caguioa hoped to be on top of the PBA Philippine Cup once more. And that dream finally turned into reality Wednesday night, as Barangay Ginebra lorded over the 2020 edition of the most prestigious conference.
Yes. Thirteen years. He waited that long.
Things were very different when he won the all-Filipino crown in 2007. Back then, he was the Best Player of the Conference, and formed the famed Fast and Furious tandem with Jayjay Helterbrand.
Manning on the sidelines for that squad was the multi-decorated Jong Uichico. Together, they would overcome a 0-2 deficit versus Chot Reyes’ San Miguel Beer on their way to the Perpetual trophy.
Fast forward to now, and Caguioa has assumed a leadership role to the present and the next generation of Gin Kings. He may be far from his old, deadly form, but he remains one of the most revered figures in the storied franchise.
And he couldn’t feel more proud of his squad.
“This All-Filipino, we haven’t won in thirteen years,” said the 41-year-old moments after their 82-78 Game Five won over TNT. “I’m so proud of everyone. It has been so hard – lalo na itong All-Filipino.”
Caguioa then dedicated the championship to all the ka-Barangays. He expressed gratitude for their ever-supportive fans, who did not mind having to watch the games almost everyday, given the tight schedule of the bubble.
“You know, ‘yung mga taong nanonood sa bahay, napakahirap. Same routine every single day. ‘Yung sinasabi nga, ‘ball is life’. It has been hard,” said Caguioa, who had just wrapped his record 18th season in the league.
“I want to thank boss RSA [SMC president Ramon S. Ang], Coach Al (Alfrancis Chua, SMC Sports Director), my teammates, the coaches,” he furthered.
“Itong championship, para sa inyo ito, ‘yung mga nanonood sa bahay. This is for you guys at home.”
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