Asaytono, Hawkins put PBA Greatest snubs behind them: 'Finally, we're in' (2025)

Apr 16, 2025 4:33 PM PHT

Nelson Asaytono and Bong Hawkins, two of the finest forwards of the 1990s, welcome their inclusions in the PBA 50 Greatest Players club after being left out of the previous batches honored in 2000 and 2015

MANILA, Philippines – If there were any bad feelings from Nelson Asaytono and Bong Hawkins in the past over their PBA Greatest Players snubs, that is all ancient history now.

Asaytono and Hawkins, two of the finest forwards of the 1990s, welcomed their inclusions in the exclusive club that has grown to 50 members after being left out of the previous batches honored in 2000 and 2015.

“We’re happy. Finally, we’re in,” said Asaytono in Filipino.

Asaytono, 58, was perhaps the biggest omission when the PBA feted the original 25 players in 2000 and named 15 additions in 2015 considering his impressive body of work.

Finishing as MVP runner-up twice, Asaytono clinched two Best Player of the Conference plums, earned three Mythical First Team and four Mythical Second Team selections, and won a scoring title.

Asaytono also captured seven championships throughout his 17-year career.

“We already accepted what happened to us in the past. We’re okay now, we’re happy,” said Asaytono.

Meanwhile, Hawkins finally made the cut after missing out in 2015 as he and fellow Alaska icon Jeffrey Cariaso joined their 1996 Grand Slam teammates Johnny Abarrientos and Jojo Lastimosa on the list.

Hawkins was a two-time Mythical First and two-time Mythical Second Team selection, a Most Improved Player, and a Best Player of the Conference.

“I’m happy because the core of that Grand Slam, we’re all here. Big honor,” said Hawkins.

Aside from Asaytono, Hawkins and Cariaso, the other new Greatest members include June Mar Fajardo, Scottie Thompson, Danny Seigle, Abe King, Arnie Tuadles, Manny Victorino, and Yoyoy Villamin. – Rappler.com

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