Pasig Vice Mayor Dodot Jaworski (left) signs one of Dr. Michael Mesina’s displays featuring himand his father in a magazine cover. —DENISON REY A.
DALUPANG Robert Jaworski has had an undeniable presence on and off the basketball court. And on Tuesday night, 27 years removed from his last game and even while battling a rare blood disease and being forced to stay home, the iconic playmaker, whose figure the PBA’s logo was fashioned after, still wielded that same charisma. Through his son and namesake Robert “Dodot” Jr.
and a mini-exhibit chronicling his storied career, the Big J was fondly remembered as the PBA Press Corps (PBAPC) hailed the Toyota and Ginebra legend with its Lifetime Achievement Award. “This award is not just a reflection of my achievements, but also a celebration of the millions of Filipinos who have been part of my journey,” Jaworski said in the speech read by his son. “To the league that has been my home for many years, you allowed me to grow, to fight, to win and even to lose.
It is a reminder of the incredible journey I have had in the enduring impact of basketball on all our lives,” he added. Jaworski is the only other recipient of the honor, following Alaska owner Wilfred Uytengsu, who took home the award in 2019. “Reflecting on my career, I am truly grateful for the opportunities I have had and the people who have supported me,” the former playing coach, now 78, added.
Jaworski’s varsity days to his exploits in the international.