Joe Devance grateful to Tim Cone as he becomes 10-time champion

Joe Devance already has his trophy case stacked with championships, yet he added another one on Friday night.

The 6-foot-7 forward collected his 10th PBA title after his Barangay Ginebra beat rivals Meralco anew, 105-93, in Game Five of the Finals to clinch the 2019 PBA Governors’ Cup crown.

Devance has tied former teammate Yancy De Ocampo for the second-most number of championships among active players. Rafi Reavis, another of his ex-teammates, is on top with 11.

“It’s been a long journey, a lot of learning experiences. A lot of good times, great times. A lot of sad times too. But it’s all worth it to be here,” he said. “Just truly blessed to be a part of this team.

“To play under a coach like coach Tim, even all the assistant coaches that helped me along the way. I appreciate everything,” Devance added, as he won all of his titles with coach Tim Cone.

Devance didn’t really see much action for the Barangay in this series; he wasn’t even fielded back in Game Four which Ginebra won convincingly. Still, the 37-year-old has no issues.

“Last game I didn’t even play. The game before that I played for about four minutes. Today I played about four or five minutes. It feels really good though, to not do too much and win a championship,” he quipped.

“I’m not gonna lie. Do you know what I mean? Because usually after every game, in the past I’m hurting and like. ‘Oh man! I can’t walk or whatever.’ But this one, I ain’t really have to do anything.

“So I’m happy. It feels great. I’m fresh,” furthered the 12-year league veteran with a chuckle.

Devance then expressed how proud he is of the whole Gin Kings for this triumph, which gave the franchise its 12th title. He also tipped his hat to Japeth Aguilar, who took Finals MVP honors.

Photo by PBA Images

“I’m really proud of the guys though, they worked hard and you know, this whole conference, Jap blossomed at the right time. Defensively, man he was a beast. He was all over the place,” he said.

“I’m very proud of him.”