MPBL: Gin Kings see Helterbrand bringing 'NSD' spirit to Imus Bandera
by Ernest Hernandez
Former Ginebra mainstay Jayjay Helterbrand shocked the basketball community when he announced his return under Imus Bandera just two days before the opening of Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League.
Seeing "The Fast" play in a non-Ginebra jersey is surreal but his former Gin King teammates wish him the best in his next chapter in life.
“I wish him luck. I still see Jayjay playing. He can still play. He is fit to play,” said LA Tenorio.
“I think ginawa niya yun for the fans. Fans are really looking forward to see him play. I wish him well sa career niya sa MPBL and sana injury-free,” Tenyente adds.
Gin Kings resident import Justin Brownlee was shocked when he heard the news but at the same time happy for Helterbrand to continue playing the game he loves the most.
“I miss him a lot but I am proud of and happy for him,” said Brownlee. “He loves the game of basketball and this is another opportunity for him to play. He has been missing it so I am happy for him.”
For all what it is worth, Joe Devance knows that Imus Bandera will get a quality player in-and-out of the court.
“He is going to be the same leader he has always been. He is going to bring that same game to that team and for sure it is going to be a lot of fun for them,” said Devance.
On Helterbrand’s debut game with Imus Bandera, he helped the team secure an overtime victory against the Caloocan Supremos, 78-75. He finished with 14 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists.
As Tenorio expected, Helterbrand will lead the team and carry the never-say-die spirit during Imus Bandera’s first win in 2019-2020 MPBL Season.
“Jayjay is a fighter. Sila ni Mark (Caguioa) ang epitome ng never-say-die. I am sure, madadala niya yun sa Imus. And of course, fan-favorite yan eh,” said Tenorio.