Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
From one hoops legend to another, Lyceum of the Philippines University had the enviable situation of hosting two icons in one 24-hour span.
First it was Ray Allen on Tuesday evening, then on Wednesday morning it was Robert Jaworski’s turn to visit the Pirates’ grounds.
“What the players experienced was up close and personal with Allen and I’m happy for them,” said Robinson Wednesday. “Allen gave them some advice and I know that’s really uplifting for the players.”
Allen arrived in the Intramuros campus around 4 p.m. when most of the Pirates have gone to their dorm rooms with just a handful of the roster staying because of classes.
The two-time champion, and future Hall of Famer, told those in attendance they “have to work harder because you can’t sneak up on anybody anymore.”
Lyceum have been perennial bottom-dwellers in the NCAA up until this season when the Pirates swept the first round.
“Now, the teams you’re supposed to beat are going to play you extra tough, like you’re the world champions. Now, you have to not get tired of the process,” said Allen. “You don’t win a championship the day they give you the trophy. You win a championship every morning you wake up at six. That’s where the reward comes.”
Jaworski, whose son is a friend of Lyceum officials, then visited the Pirates hours after Allen arrived.
“This morning it was Sen. Jaworski who paid a visit, and the players were really happy,” said Robinson in Filipino. “Because, it doesn’t matter what generation you belong to, everybody knows Robert Jaworski.”