Bong Hawkins, Jeff Cariaso named among PBA's 50 Greatest Players

Former Alaska Milkmen players Bong Hawkins and Jeff Cariaso have been named among the PBA's 50 Greatest Players for its 50th anniversary, joining Johnny Abarrientos and Jojo Lastimosa who were part of the initial list in 2000.

Head coach Tim Cone praised the unique chemistry and camaraderie of the team, highlighting Hawkins' role as a defensive anchor and leader on offense.

Cone emphasized that Hawkins was instrumental in bringing everything together and executing the triangle offense flawlessly, while Abarrientos won the Most Valuable Player award in 1996.

Cariaso, who won Rookie of the Year in 1995, contributed significantly to fastbreaks and defended against formidable imports, alongside Lastimosa who was a key player in their Grand Slam victory.

Alaska became only the third franchise to achieve a Triple Crown in 1996, alongside Crispa and San Miguel, with Abarrientos winning Season MVP and Hawkins claiming Commissioner's Cup Best Player of the Conference.