Express still negotiating with Big J

Malaya
October 2, 2007

AIR21 seemingly has it all: A formidable core, augmented by exciting acquisitions from the rookie draft and shrewd trades.

Yet the Express are still bent on pursuing what may be their biggest achievement, that of pulling basketball Living Legend Robert Jaworski out of retirement and making their coach them in the 33rd PBA season starting on Oct. 14.

According to team officials, negotiations are still ongoing with the "Big J," adding further to the high expectations surrounding the Bert Lina-owned franchise.

The mere sight of Jaworski calling the shots is a spectacle in itself and even current Air21 head coach Bo Perasol can’t help but be among those caught up in the excitement.

"Excited, pero naiinip din kahit paano," said Perasol. "But the team understands that it takes time, especially negotiating with someone of Robert Jaworski’s stature."

Whether he keeps his coaching job or not, Perasol maintains there won’t be any problem. "I’m always ready for whatever job management tells me to do," he said.

"I’m the one handling the team right now and definitely, there won’t be much problem if ever I’ll still be the head coach in the coming conference."

Whether it’s Jaworski or Perasol, the Express remain a team full of promise.

Picking the Ateneo duo of JC Intal and Doug Kramer in the rookie draft, along with Marvin Cruz–considered a steal in the second round–further added youth and athleticism to a young and running Express squad that includes Arwind Santos, Wynne Arboleda, KG Canaleta, Aris Dimaunahan and Homer Se.

Kramer, a stocky 6-foot-5 forward, fills the void vacated by Mark Telan, who was traded by Air21 to Coca-Cola for a first round draft right.

The return of Ranidel de Ocampo after a stint with the RP men’s basketball team–and hopefully, of Gary David from the injured list next month–only makes the Express even more dangerous.

That’s enough for Perasol to send a stern warning to the rest of the 10-team field.

"Patayan ang Philippine Cup. But do not underestimate this team. Pag binalewala mo ito, kayang-kaya kang talunin nito," said the former University of the Philippines stalwart.