PBA legend Robert “Sonny” Jaworski –Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Long regarded as the “Living Legend” of Philippine basketball and the main character in the glory years of the PBA, Robert Jaworski was honored with the lifetime achievement award by the PBA Press Corps on Tuesday and in words only he can say, said a message of thanks through son Robert “Dodot” Jaworski Jr.
“Reflecting on my career, I am truly grateful for the opportunities I have had and the people who have supported me,” Jaworski Jr., while reading a statement of his ill father, said. “From my early days with Toyota to my years with Barangay Ginebra, my journey in the PBA has been extraordinary, to say the least.”
The elder Jaworski contracted a reported mysterious blood disease at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and hasn’t been seen publicly since.
But his words in the prepared acceptance statement reflected how he was during his prime, when his wit was as legendary as his exploits on the court.
Real family man
“This award is not just a reflection of my achievements, but also a celebration of the millions of Filipinos who have been part of my journey,” said Jaworski.
“Every challenge, every victory and every moment on the hard court taught me lessons that go way beyond basketball,” he continued.
Jaworski won a total of 13 PBA titles—with Toyota as its starting guard and later on with Barangay Ginebra as a player-coach, where the ‘never-say-die’ mantra saw birth.
As an amateur, Jaworski was a member of two gold medal-winning Philippine teams that ruled the Asian region with an iron hand.
He also didn’t forget to mention the biggest support system in his life: “To my family, with special mention to my wife, Evelyn, thank you for your unwavering support and sacrifices. Your love and encouragement have been my foundation, and I share this honor with you.”