By JEREMIAH M. SEVILLA
CLARK FREEPORT – Barangay Ginebra coach Tim Cone said the biggest challenge for them now is to stay fully motivated since they will be without their legion of fans in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) bubble.
“It’s different. There’s no crowd. So, we have to tell our bench to stay engaged and cheer. We’re our own little crowd,” said Cone after the Gin Kings kicked off their Philippine Cup campaign with a 102-92 beating of the NLEX Road Warriors in front of empty seats at the Angeles University Foundation Arena here.
It was a rare sight for the defending Governor’s Cup champion, as games were played behind closed doors with only virtual fans projected on five LED boards.
“I think that’s the biggest adjustment for us right now, trying to generate the enthusiasm while the game is going. We’re used to having it given to us. Now we have to generate it ourselves,” he added.
Fortunately for the multi-titled mentor, he has veteran guard Mark Caguioa to keep the Kings energized.
“Mark Caguiao is always in our ears: ‘We got to do it for the fans, we got to do it for the fans.’ So he’s that guy who’s always reminding us.”
The 62-year-old American tactician, who holds the most number of PBA titles at 22 highlighted by two Grand Slams, is urging his other seasoned wards to emulate 40-year-old Caguioa.
“It really comes from the leadership. Those leaders have to step up and encourage their teammates whether they’re on the bench. That’s the way we hope to make up for not having fans.”
Ginebra might have more supporters inside the AUF gym in the coming weeks as PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial, who was celebrating his birthday on Monday, bared that about 250 virtual fans will be accommodated starting October 19.
“Dahan-dahan nating sasabihin sa social media natin kung paano sila papasok,” said Marcial.
