Legendary PBA coaches Dalupan, Cone share mutual respect

MANILA, Philippines – From one legendary head coach to another.

Weeks after bringing back PBA household name Virgilio ‘Baby’ Dalupan into the mix by beating his record, it was San Mig Super Coffee Mixers head coach Tim Cone’s time to receive praise from no less than the head coach he dethroned as winningest PBA mentor of all time.

Cone surpassed Dalupan’s long-standing record of 15 championships after edging Rain or Shine in a grueling all-Filipino showdown, 4-2, quickly making Dalupan’s name resonate again among millions of PBA fans, media, and online observers – a positive thing especially for younger fans who had never been acquainted with Dalupan’s legacy in the league.

“I’m thrilled to bring Baby Dalupan’s name back into consciousness of the PBA fans especially the young ones'” he said.

And even after the Mixers mentor notched his 16th title, he humbly praised Dalupan, saying there will no one like the 15-time PBA champion coach.

“No one will equal Baby, and no one will ever surpass Baby as the greatest coach who ever coached in this league,” said Cone after basking in the glory of their Game 6 win.

“41 championships through his career in the NCAA, MICAA, PBA is just an amazing stat. This championship is a great tribute to him and I’m thrilled to be part of his legacy now.”

It was Dalupan’s turn to give his take regarding Cone’s historic feat. The 90-year-old PBA great closely followed the recently-concluded championship series and is grateful to have his accomplishments be brought back to the table.

“I thank him for his kind words as he shared his memories of the 1990 PBA season, a season that holds many fond memories for me as well.”

First and last

Dalupan’s last title would be at the expense of Tim Cone, then a young head coach for the Alaska Aces. Dalupan steered Purefoods to the 1991 All Filipino crown for what would be his final trophy in the pro league; for Cone, it was his first taste of defeat in the Last Dance.

“I remember saying then that I was very lucky to have won that championship as I was up against a very talented and intelligent coach in Tim Cone,” said Dalupan, who coached three PBA franchises including the Crispa Redmanizers whom he led to a grand slam in 1976.

The legendary Dalupan had coached Crispa as early as 1962, way before the PBA was founded. And when he retired in 1991, it was Cone’s time to chase the record books.

He couldn’t thank Cone enough for bringing back the memories that will surely stay in the minds of basketball fans they’ve captivated, both then and now.

“I thank him for his kind words as he shared his memories of the 1990 PBA season, a season that holds many fond memories for me as well.”

He added by wishing Cone more accomplishments in the years to come.

“I am indeed very happy for Tim who now holds the record for most PBA championships won. I send him my most heartfelt congratulations and wish him more success.”

Philippine hoops have seen two fabled head coaches make their respective legacies in the PBA. Both Cone and Dalupan brought joy, accomplishment, and success to the country with the help of its most popular sport.

And in a matter of time, it will be Cone’s turn to hand out his torch to the next legend. – Rappler.com