Ever the true professional, Mike Harris tipped his hat to Magnolia after the Hotshots the 2018 PBA Governors’ Cup championship on Wednesday night at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, at the expense of his Alaska Aces.
“They did a great job. They did what they were supposed to do,” said Harris moments after their 86-102 defeat.
“Nothing but respect for those guys.”
However, Harris was also left seething. Not because of the loss, but because one of the Hotshots had apparently mocked him and his team; something which, according to accounts, happened during and after the game.
One account even said that that player – one of Magnolia’s veterans – made a cooking gesture during the championship ceremony.
“They mocked us.
“It was just a lack of respect. Total disrespect of character for a person to be like that, especially someone of their age and respect in the league. But it’s okay. Don’t worry about it,” said Harris, who did not name the player.
Given that situation, the 35-year-old said that it is one reason why he would love to come back next year.
“Don’t worry about it. It’s part of the game, they’re excited,” shared Harris.
“But it’s something I’ll never forget. And it’s great fuel for next year if they’ll have me back.
“Shout-out to Magnolia, they did a great job.,” added the reigning Best Import.
But aside from that personal vendetta, what pushes the former NBA D-League champion to return to Alaska is his love for the storied franchise, since he now calls all 17 Milkmen his newfound brothers.
“They’re the most professional club that I’ve been with in my career overseas, and they treat players like they’re NBA teams,” said Harris, who has had stints with the Houston Rockets, the Washington Wizards, and the Utah Jazz.
“From the staff, the management they have, it’s been nothing but respect. And that’s something I’ll never forget if I’m not the guy to come back next year. I love those guys – those guys in the locker room, all seventeen of those guys. I’ve made some new brothers and I’ll definitely stay in contact,” he added.
“They chased me for eight years, so it’s my turn to chase them for a few months now.”
