Big J looks forward to better sports

THE LUNCH invitation from former business associate Reli De Leon last Monday left a strong sense of déjà vu.

Reli said former senator and Philippine basketball’s most popular cager Sonny Jaworski was hosting a small get-together for friends in the media who had covered his exploits when he was still actively playing.

Like Mike Keon about three weeks earlier, Reli kept the day’s agenda a tightly guarded secret, which would only be made known once the scribes get to the venue at Macapagal Avenue, which is miles away from where I live.

Sometimes, the scribes brave the long drive and monstrous traffic believing that there’s a big story only to be in for a big letdown.

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“Bobby just wants a reunion with the old media group who he hasn’t seen for a long time. Kwentuhan lang. His 70th birthday is just around the corner on March 8 so parang this is his blowout na,” said Jaworski’s unofficial publicist.

At 70, Reli said Jawo looks much younger than his actual age because he exercises daily. He still plays tennis regularly at the Corinthian Tennis courts. You can see for yourself when we meet at the Boodle Fight Fiesta for lunch.”

“Boodle is a new Seafood restaurant located along Macapagal Avenue near Dampa and it is owned by my businessman-friend. The place is fit for a big celebrity like the former senator,” said Reli, finding an opportunity to put in a plug.

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After the get-together with the media, Reli let me in on what was discussed.

“The senator told the media he is looking forward to a better sports program for our country. He has always believed—and this he told them, that sports is the unifying factor needed to make a successful country.”

Does he have a plan to achieve this goal?

“The senator said his mind, body and spirit have always been dedicated to the sport of basketball, that’s why he always heaps the highest compliments on Gilas patron Manny V. Pangilinan. He admires what the man has been doing for Philippine basketball.

“Type AB daw ang dugo nya. ‘Always Basketball,’” Reli said of the Big J.

“Mostly, the Living Legend reminisced about ‘the good old days,’” his participation in different Asian and Olympic Games… He recalled how athletes of his era used to render service for love of flag and country, expecting nothing in return.”

“Jawo said it’s a priceless service he’s willing to give anytime.”

In case you’re wondering why I’m telling you Jaworski’s message through Reli, it’s because I could not gather enough courage and energy to attend the Jaworski presscon last Tuesday. I just requested Reli to please report what had transpired.

So what do you think, do I have a story? I’m still trying to read between the lines.