Thompson turns into fan seeing idols Helterbrand, Caguioa in vintage form

Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

When Jayjay Helterbrand started his career in the PBA, his now teammate Scottie Thompson was just entering first grade.

And 16 years later, the two are now sharing the court with Thompson appearing to be the heir apparent.

On Friday, however, Helterbrand gave a performance that left his young ward at awe.

“Pagpasok nila (Helterbrand and Mark Caguioa) kinilabutan ako kasi gustung gusto nila ‘tong championship,” said Thompson after Ginebra beat Meralco, 88-86, to tie the PBA Governors’ Cup Finals 2-2 at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Helterbrand, who played just eight minutes the whole series coming into Game 4, was put in the game at the start of the fourth quarter with Ginebra trailing Meralco, 74-58, and the 2009 MVP proceeded to work his magic.

He scored all of his 11 points in the fourth quarter and went a perfect 4-of-4 from the field, and capped off the Gin Kings’ 21-2 frenzy with a triple to give them a 79-76 lead.

Ginebra’s thrilling victory also came on Helterbrand’s 40th birthday.

“Honored ako na andun sila sa court kasama sila maglaro,” said Thompson, who had four points, eight rebounds, and five assists. “Talagang nakita ko mga idol ko na napapanood ko lang dati.”