FAMILIAR FACES. (From L-R) Taiwan Mustangs coach Chris Gavina, Gilas Pilipinas coach Tim Cone, Taiwan guard Alex Cabagnot and Gilas assistant Richard del Rosario catchup during Gilas’ exhibition game against the Taiwan Mustangs at Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
MANILA, Philippines—Gilas Pilipinas coach Tim Cone felt the nostalgia in the air at Philsports Arena on Monday.
Cone had a chance to catch up with some familiar faces when Gilas faced the Taiwan Mustangs in an exhibition game. One of those names was former PBA star Alex Cabagnot, who now plays for the Mustangs after starring in nine championship runs with San Miguel Beer.
“Alex is ageless,” said Cone of the 41-year-old veteran after Gilas beat Taiwan, 74-64.
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“He’s absolutely ageless. He can step into a team right now and still contribute any way he wants to at this point.”
Cone, the most decorated coach in the PBA with 25 championships, has had countless battles with Cabagnot ever since the heady guard entered the league as the second overall pick by defunct Sta. Lucia in the 2005 PBA Draft.
Taiwan Mustangs guard Alex Cabagnot watches the ball during a tune-up game against Gilas Pilipinas as coach Tim Cone looks on at Philsports Arena in Pasig.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
On Monday, Cone was reminded of just how difficult it was to slow down Cabagnot.
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Cabagnot finished with 13 points, seven rebounds and four assists for Taiwan.
“He’s been an awesome player after all these years. He’s just really tough to defend, a lefty and crafty. He’s tough,” said Cone.
Cone and Gilas now head to Latvia for the Fiba Olympic Qualifying Tournament, where the Filipinos shoot for a spot in the upcoming Paris Olympics.
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