Tim Cone aware of Greg Slaughter’s plans, says his loss will be a big blow to the team

Tim Cone clarified on Monday that he knew all along of Greg Slaughter’s decision to take a leave from playing pro basketball and that he plans to talk personally to the 31-year old Fil-Am.

“Contrary to some reports, I did know Greg was contemplating taking a break from basketball,” said Cone reacting to earlier reports that he was in the dark with regards to the 7-footer’s emotional ‘farewell’ post on his social media accounts.

Cone disclosed that he and Slaughter discussed the scenario during an exit interview that transpired after Brgy. Ginebra reclaimed the Governors’ Cup via 4-1 trouncing of the Meralco Bolts in the Finals.

“We discussed it during our exit meeting immediately following the championship, and I hope to discuss it further in the next couple of days,” said the league’s winning-est mentor.

Slaughter’s mind-boggling decision came after his 3-year contract with the Gin Kings expired at the end of January.

With the impending absence of the other half of the team’s vaunted ‘Twin Towers’, Cone admitted that the crowd darlings will have to content for the All-Filipino crown with a gaping hole in the middle.

“Obviously, his absence in the All-Filipino would be a big blow to the team and his teammates,” he said.