Ginebra’s RJ Abarrientos Shows Great Respect for His Uncle | Tim Cone Says the ‘Never Say Die’ Spirit is Still Alive

In the ever-competitive world of Philippine basketball, the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel has long been known for its passionate fanbase, relentless fight, and the iconic “Never Say Die” spirit. This undying will to push forward against all odds has been a defining characteristic of the franchise, a legacy that has been carried through generations of players. One such player who exemplifies this spirit is RJ Abarrientos, who, despite being relatively new to the PBA, has already garnered the respect and admiration of fans and teammates alike.

In a recent development that’s been making waves, Abarrientos, who is related to one of Ginebra’s legends, has shown deep respect and admiration for his uncle, while also solidifying his own place in the team’s future. At the same time, Ginebra’s head coach, Tim Cone, remarked on the continued vitality of the franchise’s “Never Say Die” mantra. With the younger generation of Ginebra players like Abarrientos coming up, the team seems poised to keep that spirit alive for years to come.

RJ Abarrientos: The Legacy of Respect

RJ Abarrientos, a young and promising guard, has already made a name for himself in the PBA. A standout during his college basketball career, he was part of the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws and showed incredible promise, leading to his eventual selection by Barangay Ginebra. While Abarrientos’ playing style speaks for itself — a mix of fast-paced offense, excellent court vision, and tenacity — there is something more that stands out about him: his deep respect for his family, especially his uncle.

For those who follow Filipino basketball closely, it is known that RJ Abarrientos is the nephew of one of the most respected figures in Ginebra history — former PBA player and Ginebra legend, Johnny Abarrientos. Johnny, who is often regarded as one of the greatest point guards in PBA history, has left a lasting legacy with his stellar basketball IQ and leadership. RJ has continually spoken about the influence of his uncle on his career, often mentioning how Johnny’s career has shaped his own approach to the game.

This family connection runs deep in the world of Ginebra, with RJ openly expressing how much of an honor it is to be part of the same franchise as his uncle. In interviews, he has acknowledged Johnny’s immense contributions to the team and the game, noting how his uncle’s perseverance and commitment to excellence have served as an inspiration in his own development as a player. For RJ, it’s not just about carrying on a family legacy, but about showing gratitude and respect for the path that his uncle paved, making sure that every step he takes in his own career is measured, humble, and determined.

Tim Cone: The “Never Say Die” Spirit Endures

Tim Cone, the legendary head coach of Barangay Ginebra, has been at the helm of the team’s resurgence in recent years. His leadership has been a key factor in maintaining the franchise’s status as one of the most successful and beloved teams in the PBA. One of Cone’s most notable contributions to Ginebra is his ability to instill the team’s iconic “Never Say Die” spirit — a mentality that has helped the team achieve remarkable comebacks and overcome adversity in even the most challenging of situations.

The “Never Say Die” spirit is not just a slogan; it’s a mindset that defines the culture of Barangay Ginebra. Over the years, this mentality has been demonstrated in countless memorable games, where the team fought back from seemingly insurmountable odds to secure victories. It’s a symbol of resilience, grit, and a refusal to give up, no matter the circumstances.

In a recent statement, Tim Cone reaffirmed that the “Never Say Die” spirit is still very much alive within the Ginebra team. While the franchise has experienced transitions with new players coming in and old veterans retiring, Cone emphasized that the core values of the team — perseverance, hard work, and unity — have never wavered. He believes that the new generation of players, including RJ Abarrientos, embodies this spirit, ensuring that the legacy of Ginebra’s resilience continues for years to come.

Cone’s confidence in the younger players like Abarrientos is evident. Under Cone’s leadership, Ginebra has become a breeding ground for developing future stars who understand the importance of the team’s culture. Abarrientos, with his work ethic and respect for Ginebra’s history, fits perfectly into this mold. Cone’s praise of Abarrientos reflects his belief that the “Never Say Die” spirit is not something tied to just a few players or a particular era but is ingrained in every member of the team.

RJ Abarrientos and His Role in Ginebra’s Future

As Ginebra continues to aim for future championships, players like RJ Abarrientos are seen as the key to the team’s long-term success. His style of play, marked by his speed, vision, and ability to score and facilitate, is a natural fit for Ginebra’s system, which emphasizes fast breaks, ball movement, and the constant pressure on the opposition. With his potential to grow into one of the league’s top guards, Abarrientos is expected to play a pivotal role in the coming seasons.

However, what sets Abarrientos apart from other young players is his understanding of the Ginebra culture. He is not only a talented player but also a product of the franchise’s ethos. As a player who respects the tradition and the players who came before him, Abarrientos is ready to carry the torch for the team, ensuring that the “Never Say Die” mentality will continue to guide the team toward success. His humility, work ethic, and commitment to improving his game make him an ideal representative of Ginebra’s values.

Furthermore, Abarrientos’ leadership potential has been evident, both on and off the court. As the younger generation of players continues to evolve, it’s clear that he could be a leader of the next era of Ginebra basketball. His development into a more confident and assertive leader will be key to the team’s future as it navigates the complexities of modern basketball.

A New Era for Ginebra: Blending the Old and the New

One of the most exciting aspects of Ginebra’s future lies in the blend of its veteran leadership and youthful energy. With Tim Cone’s guidance, the team has been able to develop a cohesive squad that balances the experience of veterans like LA Tenorio, Japeth Aguilar, and Scottie Thompson with the rising stars of the future, including RJ Abarrientos.

The continued presence of the “Never Say Die” spirit, coupled with the infusion of young talent like Abarrientos, ensures that Ginebra will remain competitive in the coming years. Whether it’s Abarrientos leading the charge or learning from the veterans who have carried the torch before him, the future of the franchise looks bright. The respect he shows for his uncle, Johnny Abarrientos, and the leadership of Tim Cone set a strong foundation for success — a team culture built on resilience, respect, and an unyielding desire to win.

Ginebra fans, known for their unwavering loyalty, have embraced the changing of the guard. They know that their team’s legacy is in good hands, as the values that have sustained the team through the years remain intact. The young players like Abarrientos have a deep understanding of what it means to wear the Ginebra jersey, and with Cone’s mentorship, they are ready to uphold the standards set by past legends.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Ginebra

The story of RJ Abarrientos and his respect for his uncle, Johnny, is a testament to the strength of family and legacy in the world of basketball. With his humility and drive, Abarrientos is poised to make a lasting impact on the court for Ginebra. Tim Cone’s leadership ensures that the team remains rooted in its “Never Say Die” culture, even as it adapts to the changing dynamics of the game. The blend of experience and youth, tradition and innovation, makes Ginebra a team to watch in the years to come.

As the “Never Say Die” spirit continues to live on through players like Abarrientos, the future of Barangay Ginebra San Miguel looks brighter than ever. Fans can rest assured that their beloved team will keep fighting, no matter the odds, and that the legacy of resilience and respect will carry on for generations to come.