Eight-year pro Chris Ross played his usual all-around game during the San Miguel Beermen’s 104-96 opening day triumph over the Phoenix Fuel Masters. He tallied 16 points, nine assists, and six rebounds, proving pivotal during the Beermen’s second quarter surge.
Besides the curtain opening for their quest to win four straight Philippine Cup crowns, what made this night special for the 32-year-old guard was that his mother Virginia was in town to watch Chris live.
“The last time she watched a game [live] was maybe three years ago, but we have TFC at home so she always watches,” recalled Chris.
Ross’ mother arrived for the holidays last Tuesday but was in Clark, Pampanga until Sunday. And once she got to Manila, the youngest of the Ross siblings made sure that he gets tickets for the matriarch of their family.
“She gets up in the morning to watch every game but she’s good to have her here live. She was texting me, messaging me on Facebook every game and after the games,” beamed the reigning Defensive Player of the Year.
“She’s really our number one fan and it’s good to have her here.”
As Chris was being interviewed, his mother was watching. She had a twinkle in her eye and a smile that could light up the dim dugout of the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.
And she could not hide how proud she was of her son, who has become one of the best players in the country today.
“Very proud. He’s my baby, he’s my youngest,” shared Virginia, who is based in Texas.
“I’m a very proud mother.”
