Tim Cone Faces Major Ginebra Shift as Jamie Malonzo Heads to Japan

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by Lou Reyes

Gilas Pilipinas and Ginebra head coach Tim Cone. Photo: Reuters.

Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone has always embraced the evolution of the game — but some changes hit harder than others.

Jamie Malonzo's exit to Japan’s B.League, while long anticipated, has left the PBA’s winningest coach with a significant hole to fill heading into Season 50.

“We saw it coming,” Cone admitted, speaking from Jeddah, where he is currently coaching the Gilas Pilipinas Men’s team. “Jamie had expressed interest in playing abroad for quite some time, so we weren’t caught off guard. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy to lose him.”

Malonzo, who signed with the Kyoto Hannaryz on his 29th birthday, had become a crucial part of Ginebra’s system over the past few seasons — not just as a scorer, but as their defensive anchor. His athleticism and versatility allowed Ginebra to match up with taller imports and switch schemes seamlessly, particularly during pressure-packed playoff games.

Photo: X/Josh Bett

Cone, ever the professional, took the high road: “We support his decision. We’ve never been the type of organization to hold a player back from bigger opportunities.”

Still, there’s no denying the void.

“Jamie was unique — his ability to guard positions one through four, his energy in transition, the way he could swing momentum with a single play,” Cone reflected. “You don’t replace that overnight.”

With the PBA’s golden season approaching, Cone is now tasked with reshaping the Ginebra lineup. Rookie standout Stephen Holt is expected to take on a larger role, while returning players like Jayson David, Jeremiah Gray, and Aljon Mariano will be looked to for increased contributions.

“Losing Jamie creates a challenge — but also a chance for growth,” Cone said. “Now it’s time for others to rise and make their mark.”

Cone has been in this position before: building, adjusting, evolving. And as Ginebra enters a new era without one of its brightest stars, the legendary coach remains focused on the future.

“It’s always tough to lose someone like Jamie,” Cone said. “But it’s also part of the game. The next chapter starts now.”