Tim Cone and Sean Chambers never lost the bond they forged during their days with the Alaska franchise, a partnership that led to six PBA titles in the ’90s.
Their enduring friendship was rekindled on the court recently when Cone invited Chambers to join his coaching staff for Gilas Pilipinas’ campaign at the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Latvia.
A few days after their OQT journey concluded, Cone continued to support Chambers in his coaching endeavors in the Philippines, where the latter is now at the helm of Far Eastern University.
Cone, the winningest coach in PBA history, was on hand to witness the Tamaraws dismantle DKI Jakarta of Indonesia, 79-38, at the 2024 ANTA Asiabasket International Championship on Saturday at Enderun Colleges in BGC.
“I’ve known Sean for many, many years, and even though he was my player, he also became one of my best friends. We’ve stayed in contact all these years, even when he was coaching women’s teams in the States,” Cone shared.
“He’s one of the best people I’ve ever been around. He’s a great human being and a fantastic representative for coaches.”
Chambers has made a remarkable impression in his coaching debut in the Philippines.
Leading the most successful basketball program in the UAAP, he has revitalized FEU’s offseason campaign, guiding them to a surprise semifinals appearance in the Filoil Ecooil ECJ Cup.
In the ongoing Asiabasket tournament, the Tamaraws have been exceptional, thanks to rookie sensation Veejay Pre and a core group featuring Royce Alforque, Janrey Pasaol, Jorick Bautista, and Mohammed Konateh.
FEU narrowly defeated San Beda University in their first game, 82-74, and, despite splitting their matches against Mapua University and Adamson University, bounced back with a resounding victory against the winless Indonesian club.
Cone noted the similarities in their coaching philosophies and emphasized that Chambers’ presence would benefit Philippine basketball.
“I know his students love him, so he brings that kind of personality to his coaching. We are alike in terms of our coaching values and the way we approach the game,” Cone added.
“I’m really happy and proud that he’s here. I get to spend more time with him. He was invaluable to us during Gilas’s tournaments in Europe, and it’s just great to have him around.”
