SONNY Thoss formally hung up his sneakers with something only a few PBA players have done, and not even his fellow Alaska greats have accomplished – play for one franchise their entire careers.
The 6-foot-7 Thoss, whose No. 7 jersey was retired last Sunday by the Aces, a team where he suited up for 15 seasons, said he will be forever blessed and thankful in joining Johnny Abarrientos, Jojo Lastimosa, Bong Hawkins, Sean Chambers, Jeffrey Cariaso, and Bogs Adornado as players whose jersey numbers were retired by Alaska.
“Now I know how Ping (Marc Pingris) and (PJ) Simon felt months ago. This is definitely not an easy situation. But after watching the clips, seeing old teammates, there’s one word that comes to mind, and that’s blessed,” Thoss said at halftime of the Aces’ match against Magnolia at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“I’m truly blessed to have each and every one of you guys and the guys who sent the messages to be a part of my life. It is truly an honor. I’m very grateful to each and every one of you,” he added.
Thoss received a framed replica of his red No. 7 jersey from Alaska team governor Dickie Bachmann in ceremonies that also featured Commissioner Willie Marcial and Magnolia governor Rene Pardo.
Thoss, 40, a Fil-German, won three titles with Alaska and also emerged as finals MVP in 2013 when the Aces’ ruled the Commissioner’s Cup.
He also saw action for the Tab Baldwin-mentored Gilas Pilipinas five that won the silver medal in the 2015 FIBA Asia championship in Changsha, China, and was a 12-time All-Star and two-time Mythical First Team member.
With the Uytengsu-owned ballclub bidding the league goodbye after the Governors’ Cup, Thoss said they should be proud to be part of the organization known for its integrity and winning tradition.
“Sadly, good things do come to an end. I know this is a very sad moment for a lot of people that this will be the last time we will be able to experience the Alaska Aces team in action at this conference,” Thoss said.
“But we don’t have to leave sad. But with our heads up high, I’m proud to be part of a company rich in integrity and success. The great memories that were made in arenas like this will be forever cherished. Thank you, PBA. Thank you, Alaska,”
Tabbed fifth overall by the Aces in the talent-laden 2004 Draft Class, Thoss thanked Alaska officials who became part of his hoops journey and former coaches, particularly multi-titled tactician Tim Cone.
“As the Alaska saying goes, ‘We Not Me.’ I like to thank the Alaska franchise, Mr. Uytengsu and family, boss Joaqui (Trillo), boss Dickie (Bachmann), and management for taking a risk on me. It’s truly an honor to be a part of such a prestigious and successful organization,” he said.
Thoss’ jersey retirement also served as a mini reunion among Thoss’ former coaches and teammates.
Among those present aside from Cone, Abarrientos, and Lastimosa were Phoenix Super LPG strategist Topex Robinson, Kings deputy Richard del Rosario, retired players Cyrus Baguio, Ali Peek, Paolo Bugia, Willie Wilson, Bong Hawkins, Willie Miller, Rodney Santos, John Ferriols, and active cagers LA Tenorio, Jvee Casio, Jake Pascual, Rome dela Rosa, Mike Harris, Joe Devance, Chris Banchero, and Calvin Abueva.
