ARMED with 17 years of PBA experience and inputs of former league commissioners, retired basketball star Jean Marc Pingris is excited to assume his new role as commissioner of the fledgling Pilipinas Super League.
“Seventeen years din ako sa PBA. At nakita ko naman kung paanong patakbuhin nang maayos ang liga,” Pingris, a nine-time PBA champion and 15-time PBA All-Star, said yesterday in the Philippine Sportswriters Association online forum.
Known as the “Pinoy Sakuragi” for his work ethic and no-nonsense play, the PSL chieftain said he would also draw inputs from PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial and former commissioner Noli Eala, whom he considers friends, as well as former PBL commissioner and broadcaster Chino Trinidad, one of the PSL’s founders.
Joining Pingris in the public sports program backed by the Philippine Olympic Committee, San Miguel Corp., Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp., Milo, Amelie Hotel and Braska Restaurant was PSL President Rocky Chang, who discussed the other league’s details.
Pingris said he had received reassurance from Trinidad, whom he referred to as his “tatay-tayan,” in helping him in his new role.
“What I learned from them was that they were commissioners in the league but were friends off it. To treat each other coach and players fairly,” he said.
Chan said Pingris has all the ideal traits to be the league’s commissioner — likeable. well-respected, with proven integrity and a popular basketball figure.
