By Jonas Terrado
Barangay Ginebra San Miguel coach Tim Cone on Monday clarified that he was aware of the situation that eventually led to Greg Slaughter’s decision to take some time away from basketball.
Ginebra coach Tim Cone, with Greg Slaugher to his left. (PBA Images)
“Contrary to some reports, I did know Greg was contemplating taking a break from basketball,” Cone said, reacting to his initial statement that he had no news of Slaughter’s decision which he revealed through his Instagram account Saturday night.
Cone said that he and Slaughter discussed the possibility during an exit interview that came after Ginebra’s five-game victory over Meralco in the PBA Governors’ Cup Finals last month.
The champion mentor also reiterated his desire to sit down with Slaughter in hopes of clearing the air.
“We discussed it during our exit meeting immediately following the championship, and I hope to discuss it further in the next couple of days,” Cone said.
Ginebra center Greg Slaughter (PBA images)
The 7-foot center’s stunning decision came after the three-year contract he signed in 2016 expired at the conclusion of the championship series.
Cone acknowledged that Slaughter’s decision leaves a big hole in the Ginebra roster for the Philippine Cup which starts March 1.
Ginebra is being groomed as the strongest threat to San Miguel Beer’s bid to win an unprecedented sixth straight title in the PBA’s most important tournament.
“Obviously, his absence in the All-Filipino would be a big blow to the team and his teammates,” he said.
Source: Manila Bulletin
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