Cone rues timing of Baguio, Simon retirement

Ginebra coach Tim Cone. PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines — PJ Simon and Cyrus Baguio, two of the most exciting guards during their heyday, have called it a career in just over a four-month span.

Simon announced he’s hanging it up last September while Baguio’s retirement came about two days ago.

The two played 16 seasons in the PBA and both also walked away at 40 years old with no fanfare that left their former coach to issue his own appreciation post for the two stars.

“It’s saying (too bad) that players like PJ and Cyrus didn’t have a chance to play their last year because of the pandemic and not be able to feel their fan’s appreciation on the court,” Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone wrote on Twitter.

“I loved those two and I hope they know my appreciation!!”

It's sayang that players like PJ and Cyrus didn't have a chance to play their last year because of the pandemic and not be able to feel their fan's appreciation on the court. I loved those two and I hope they know my appreciation!!

— Tim Cone (@manilacone) January 24, 2021

Simon, who played his entire PBA career at Purefoods as one of the franchise’s deadliest scorers, won eight championships, including a Grand Slam with Cone.

Baguio, meanwhile, shared one of his three titles with Cone back when they were both with Alaska.

Baguio, who is known for his fearless drives and athleticism, last played for the NLEX Road Warriors.