Coach Tim Cone apprehensive on long break as Japeth Aguilar a doubtful starter vs Rain or Shine

BARANGAY GINEBRA has had a crazy schedule in between the PBA All-Star Weekend and the SEABA Men’s Championship.

After beating TNT KaTropa last April 23, the Gin Kings had a 17-day break before resuming to action against Alaska. The league’s most popular team edged the Aces, 103-102, and head coach Tim Cone admitted the long break has nearly took its toll on them.

Then came the SEABA Championship and the Gin Kings are returning to action after being idle for nine days.

Facing the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters tonight at the Cuneta Astrodome, Mr. Cone, the winningest coach in the PBA, is worried on how they will perform against a team that is bringing in comebacking import Duke Crews, who replaced Shawn Taggart.

“It’s been a terrifically long break, so we’re apprehensive as to how sharp we’ll be tomorrow (Friday),” wrote Mr. Cone in a text message to BusinessWorld.

The Gin Kings are coming off a five-game winning streak, the longest winning run among the 12 teams over the past few weeks. They are currently sharing the lead with sister team San Miguel Beer at 5-1.

But there’s another concern for Mr. Cone heading to their game against the Elasto Painters as Japeth Aguilar, his best rim protector, will be a doubtful starter. The 6-foot9 athletic big man is just about to wrap up his campaign playing for Gilas Pilipinas, which is currently playing Indonesia for the gold medal as of press time.

“We’re uncertain of Japeth’s availability,” added Mr. Cone. “He had no practice with us this week and hence no preparation for what we’re going to do against Rain or Shine. We’ll see if we can figure it all out in time for our game. But no doubt, our guys are raring to get back at it.” —