Christian Standhardinger has nothing but love, respect for Ginebra: ‘I respect Coach Tim’s decision’
Christian Standhardinger is set to don new colors in the upcoming PBA Season 49.
The league announced early Saturday a trade that will send Standhardinger as well as Stanley Pringle and Barangay Ginebra’s 2024 Rookie Draft 10th overall pick to TerraFirma Dyip in exchange for Stephen Holt, Isaac Go, and the No.3 overall pick.
Following this, the 2022-23 Commissioner’s Cup Finals MVP penned his message for the Gin Kings wherein he played from 2021 until the 2024 Philippine Cup.
“Hello Ginebra Nation, I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the incredible support and love you’ve shown me throughout my time with Barangay Ginebra,” wrote the four-time PBA champion who won two titles with the Gin Kings.
“Being part of this team has been a truly unforgettable journey, and I’m grateful for every cheer, every chant, and every moment of encouragement. To the fans, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your unwavering support has meant the world to me, and it has been an honor to play for you and represent the Ginebra colors.”
“To the management of San Miguel, especially Boss [Ramon S. Ang] and Boss Alfrancis Chua, I extend my sincerest thanks. Your trust and commitment have been invaluable, and I appreciate the opportunity to be part of such a prestigious organization. Thank you for putting together a team of high character and integrity.”
The Filipino-German big was previously dealt to Ginebra by the NorthPort Batang Pier in March of 2021 in exchange for Greg Slaughter.
Since then, aside from the pair of titles and a Finals MVP award, he was hailed as the 2023 Governors’ Cup Best Player of the Conference, earned a Defensive Team citation, two Mythical Team citations, and was also voted into the All-Star Game twice with perennial crowd-darlings.
“To my teammates, it has been an honor battling alongside you. We shared some amazing moments, including winning two championships, and I will always cherish those memories. I wish you all continued success and many more titles in the future.”
“I acknowledge Coach Tim [Cone]’s decision to trade me and respect it. It’s part of the game, and I wish him and the team all the best moving forward.”
“Thank you all once again for the incredible journey. Here’s to new beginnings and continued success for Ginebra!”
In a separate message, Standhardinger revealed that it was actually his intention to stay with the Gin Kings.
“Just to clarify, a year ago, I was open to being traded due to some dissatisfaction. However, after playing the whole season, I was keen on staying with Ginebra. Recently, during my exit meeting, Coach Tim asked me if I was good to continue playing for him and the team. I said yes, and he expressed his happiness to have me on board,” he shared.
The clarification from Standhardinger came after multiple reports stated that Tim Cone granted Standhardinger’s wish to play for a different coach and a different system.
“Yesterday, Coach Tim called me and communicated his decision to trade me for younger players. I want to emphasize that I had nothing to do with this decision as I was committed to finishing my contract with Ginebra.”
“Again, I respect the decision and understand the business side of sports. I just want to clarify that I did not leave you guys,” he emphasized.
Standhardinger is currently second in the Season 49 MVP race after he averaged 19.2 points, 10.2 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 0.6 steals, and 0.4 blocks for BGSM in 34 appearances last season, and the Dyip is now expected to lean on him in their Season 49 campaign.
Incidentally, the TerraFirma franchise (previously Kia Picanto) originally held the first overall pick of the 2017 which was used by the San Miguel Beermen to draft Standhardinger in that year’s proceedings.
Ahead of the 2017 draft, Kia traded the pick in the controversial deal that got them Ronald Tubid, Jay-R Reyes, Rashawn McCarthy, and a 2019 FRP in return.
