The Philippine Basketball Association Press Corps (PBAPC) will bestow honor and well deserved tribute to one of the greatest players ever in the history of Asia’s pioneering pro league.
In a testament to being one of the best point guards in the history of the league, 'The Big J' remains until now the owner of the all-time record for assists with a total of 5,825.
The legendary Robert ‘Sonny’ Jaworski Sr. will be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award when the men and women who regularly cover the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) beat celebrates its 30th Annual Awards Night on 24 September at the Novotel Manila Araneta City.
Jaworski will be the second basketball personality to be recognized with the special award. Alaska team owner Wilfred Uytengsu was its first-ever recipient during the 25th anniversary of the PBAPC back in 2019.
The iconic playing-coach is regarded by many Filipinos as the most popular player ever, whose charismatic looks combined with his playing ability and innate leadership endeared him to basketball-loving Filipinos.
Jaworski, 78, played a record 23 PBA seasons, seeing action for Toyota and Barangay Ginebra in a milestone only equaled by big man Asi Taulava two years ago.
Hailed the 1978 MVP, the tough-playing guard won a total of 13 championships both as player and coach from 1975 to 1997 and remains until now the only player to suit up in a game at the age of 50.
'The Big J' was also a six-time Mythical First Team, two-time Mythical Second Team, and two-time All-Defensive Team member, as well as a four-time All-Star.
After a decorated career with Toyota, the Filipino Olympian found his niche with Gilbey’s Gin (forerunner of Ginebra) where he eventually gave rise to the franchise's now-fabled 'Never Say Die' spirit.
Jaworski was the first-ever playing-coach to win a PBA championship during the 1986 Open Conference, and four years later, became the coach of the first-ever all-pro team to play in the Beijing Asian Games where the country copped the silver medal.
He’s also been a part of the original 25 Greatest Players in PBA history and was a first ballot PBA Hall of Famer as member of the inaugural 2005 Class.
In 2012, his celebrated no. 7 jersey was officially retired by Barangay Ginebra.
Following a colorful basketball career, Jaworski ventured into public service and served as Philippine Senator from 1998 to 2004.
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