It was a sentimental bubble season for Scottie Thompson after his grandmother passed away in the middle of the 2020 PBA Philippine Cup in Clark, Pampanga.
Upon learning the sad news last October, Thompson had vowed to bag the All-Filipino title in honor of his late grandmother.
But now that it's a mission accomplished, the 27-year-old Ginebra guard, who averaged 8.6 points, 8.6 rebounds and 5.0 assists in the Finals series, is more than grateful to have been part of history.
"Sobrang thankful ako kay God kasi binigyan niya ko ng chance na talagang mabigay ko sa lola ko," said the five-time PBA champion after the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Gin Kings edged the TNT Tropang Giga, 82-78, in Game 5 of the Finals Wednesday night at the Angeles University Foundation Sports and Cultural Center.
"Siguro talagang hinintay ko 'tong moment na 'to kasi para after nito, makauwi ako sa amin mabisita ko siya," added Thompson, who posted six points, seven rebounds and three assists in their final game in the bubble.
During the do-or-die semifinals game against the Meralco Bolts, Thompson pulled off a Justin Brownlee moment after sinking a game-winning triple from the left corner with 0.6 seconds left.
An emotional Thompson was left in awe at that time, saying he felt the presence of his grandmother for that miracle shot.
"Sobrang worth it tsaka sobrang hardwork pay off sa amin kasi talagang pinaghirapan namin 'to every single day, every practice, every hour. Talagang binibigay namin todo 'yung sarili namin. Talagang before start ng bubble naka-mindset kami na sana hanggang dulo ng bubble kami uuwi," said the four-time PBA All-Star.
Before making it into the playoffs, the former NCAA MCP from Perpetual Help was instrumental in leading Ginebra for the top spot en route to the playoffs.
During the elimination rounds, Thompson performed on both ends of the floor and posted norms of 14.27 points, 8.82 rebounds and 6.26 assists.
With a new challenge ahead of 2021 amid the coronavirus pandemic, the proud grandson has one more message to his beloved "lola."
"Lola, kung saan ka man ngayon, para sa'yo talaga 'to at patulong mo akong suportahan."