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After a decade of donning Barangay Ginebra’s iconic red and white, Aljon Mariano is stepping into a new chapter — and a bigger role — with Terrafirma in the PBA Philippine Cup.
Mariano, who captured seven championships in his 10-year run with the Gin Kings, was traded alongside Maverick Ahanmisi to the Dyip in exchange for a first-round pick in next year’s Rookie Draft. The move marks a turning point for the 33-year-old forward, who is now expected to be both a mentor and a stabilizing presence for a roster brimming with young talent.
“I’m with a new team now, so my focus has to be here. My goal is to share my experience and guide the younger players,” Mariano said after his Terrafirma debut, where he tallied 10 points, two rebounds, and three assists in a 125-108 loss to Converge on Wednesday.
Terrafirma’s lineup features rising stars such as Mark Nonoy, Louie Sangalang, Paolo Hernandez, Brent Paraiso, CJ Catapusan, and Jerrick Ahanmisi — a promising but inexperienced core that will benefit from Mariano’s years of championship culture under Ginebra coach Tim Cone.
With Maverick Ahanmisi sidelined by a toe injury, Mariano saw extended minutes — logging 17 in total, more than triple his average of 5:29 per game last season with Ginebra.
“It’s an adjustment playing longer minutes, but I have to take advantage of this opportunity and never take it for granted,” he said.
As Terrafirma looks to climb out of rebuilding mode, Mariano’s experience, leadership, and poise could be exactly what the Dyip need to steer their youthful roster toward growth and consistency this conference.