Tim Cone labels Jamie Malonzo as the “Jayson Tatum” of Gilas Pilipinas

Former Barangay Ginebra San Miguel star Jamie Malonzo has been one of the most talked-about names in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup, as Gilas Pilipinas fans have loudly demanded his presence on the court. Supporters flocked to the King Abdullah Sports City Arena in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to cheer for their basketball heroes in the flesh.

However, Gilas head coach Tim Cone did not play Malonzo in any of the team’s three group-stage games, with the forward listed as DNP–CD (Did Not Play – Coach’s Decision) throughout the preliminary rounds.

Cone addressed fans’ requests regarding the 29-year-old’s absence, praising Malonzo’s professionalism and even comparing him to Boston Celtics and Team USA star Jayson Tatum.

After 3 straight DNPs, Jamie Malonzo is now playing against Saudi Arabia.

At halftime, Malonzo has 0 points. 0 rebounds and 0 assists in 3:08 of action.

This is what happens when a coach ices a player, the confidence melts and the timing is off🥲

— Homer Sayson (@HomerSayson) August 11, 2025

“Jamie is our Jayson Tatum. It’s hard playing all 12 players with this much talent on the team, and no one feels worse about not playing him than me. But all 12 guys are committed to each other, and Jamie is showing great professionalism in handling his role,” Cone said in a media interview.

Filipino fans chanted Malonzo’s name during the games, but he remained on the bench—until Gilas Pilipinas’ thrilling 88–85 victory over Saudi Arabia in the early hours of Tuesday, August 12 (Philippine Standard Time). Malonzo finally stepped onto the court, playing just over three minutes and failing to register a major impact.

Many have speculated that Malonzo’s limited minutes are linked to his decision to leave Barangay Ginebra for Japan’s B.League, where he recently signed with Kyoto Hannaryz. Cone previously admitted his disappointment over the move, suggesting that Malonzo’s departure from the powerhouse PBA club factored into his current role.

Gilas Pilipinas will face Australia in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday, August 13, at the King Abdullah Sports City Arena. Fans will be watching closely to see whether Jamie Malonzo gets more time on the floor in this high-stakes matchup.

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