MANILA, Philippines—If there ever was an import who became synonymous with a franchise, it has to be Sean Chambers with Alaska.
Chambers powered Alaska to its first seven titles including the 1996 Grand Slam becoming an icon not only with the team but in the PBA and this bond he created with the franchise was what caused him place his Philippine home in such a pedestal.
Chambers admitted that was distraught when he learned of the Aces’ decision to leave the PBA.
“Thank you to everyone reaching out to me about the news of my beloved Alaska Aces. I haven’t found the right words to express my love and gratitude for Mr. [Wilfred] Uytengsu, my teammates, the Alaska family, fans, and the entire PBA Family,” posted Chambers on Facebook.
“My career/legacy in the Philippines, all the memories with my brothers/teammates and all the wonderful Filipinos are still a huge part of my life,” wrote Chambers. “These memories will last a lifetime and beyond. My family and I are forever grateful. Please keep all the Alaska Aces die-hard fans in your prayers.”
The 6-foot-2 forward was the Aces’ driving force during their storied run in the 1990s as the decade propelled them to PBA royalty.
Alaska eventually become the second winnings team in the league with 14 championships.
Chambers started his career with Alaska in 1989 and was such an important figure that he still suited up for the team in 2001.
Apart from his multiple titles with the club, Chambers also won the 1996 Governors’ Cup Best Import award and had his no.20 jersey retired—just one of six Aces who had numbers retired along with Jojo Lastimosa (6), Johnny Abbarientos (14), Bong Hawkins (16), Jeffrey Cariaso (22), Bogs Adornado (33).