TNT team manager Jojo Lastimosa, one of PBA’s 40 greatest, was a disciplined cager during his active playing years whether in the amateurs or in the pros.
(I say this with authority because I covered his outstanding playing days in the PABL and PBA.)
Such that the recent delinquent actuations of Fil-Am hotshot Mikey Williams have pierced his patience, thus mincing no words in revealing the negative attitude a player of William’s caliber has been displaying recently.
The Californian-born 31 year old shooting guard is reportedly one of the highest paid in the TNT line-up but his demeanor as a professional remains something to be desired.
In behalf of management, Lastimosa has suspended Williams without pay and until this writing, the latter has not called to apologize nor physically approached TNT management to explain his absences from team practices.
His relationship with teammates, Lastimosa disclosed, is not harmonious as it should ideally be and does not speak much of William’s character.
On one occasion, Lastimosa said, Williams did not come to practice despite being fetched by a company driver from where he was staying.
True or not, there are naughty rumors surfacing that the high scoring guard has been receiving feelers from some agents that have close connection with Japan B. League ball clubs.
The perception among basketball observers – even PBA fans alike – could be that Williams might have received irresistible offers and that he is inclined to accept.
This may be the reason that (I hope it is not true) some are speculating for the recent “delinquent” scenario.
Williams might be inducing TNT to suspend him indefinitely so he could make a “reasonable” exit to jump over to the other league that has been continuously poaching PBA waters for some time now.
Quite naturally, as Williams is already 31 and very well been thinking that he has only 5 more good years left, the fellow is forced to seek the best remuneration and compensation for whatever remains of his playing years.
Is it true that Williams receives P1.2M from TNT (monthly salary, perks, bonuses, etc.)?
We can’t blame people for seeking greener pastures but in William’s case, he has to respect the contract he signed with TNT before jumping over to another league.
TNT is on the losing side here even if disciplinary actions (fines and suspensions without pay) are meted on Williams because the guy might be just too willing and ready to sever his contractual ties with management.
In sum, I think PBA compensation rates must be promptly recalibrated to make them competitively at par with foreign counterparts and thus prevent (underpaid) PBA stars and talented Pinoy cagers from getting pirated overseas.
The bottom line is all about money. (Email feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!
