In a revealing post-game assessment, Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings head coach Tim Cone drew a fascinating parallel between one of his young players and a global basketball icon. Cone likened rising star Jayson David to Miami Heat and former Golden State Warriors standout Jimmy Butler of the NBA.
A Star Comparison Emerges After Crucial Win
The comparison gained spotlight following David's significant contribution in a pivotal playoff victory. On Sunday, January 11, 2026, the Gin Kings defeated the San Miguel Beermen, tying the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup semi-finals series at 2-2. David's impactful performance off the bench captured the attention of the Ginebra faithful and his coach alike.
"I always tell him that he reminds me of Jimmy Butler. He is so dynamic," Cone stated in an interview featured on ABS-CBN News. The veteran coach elaborated on the similarities, noting his deep familiarity with Butler's game from closely following the Miami Heat.
Breaking Down the Similarities
Cone pointed to specific physical and stylistic traits that connect the two players. "Wide body, can play bigger than he is, and very versatile," Cone described. He emphasized, "I know Jimmy Butler well because I follow the Miami Heat so closely and he was there back then, and [Jayson] now has the opportunity to show that."
This high praise places considerable expectation on David, whom Ginebra selected as the 20th overall pick in the 2022 PBA Draft. For his part, David displayed a team-first mentality focused on the challenge at hand.
David's Mindset: A Team Effort Against a Deep Foe
Responding to his coach's comments and his role, Jayson David highlighted the collective effort needed to overcome a powerhouse like San Miguel. He stressed that contribution must come from every player on the roster, not just the established stars.
"When you come from the bench, you need to help. It can't just be Scottie [Thompson], Troy [Rosario], [Stephen] Holt, and Miah [Gray]. All of us need to step up. That's San Miguel, their bench is very deep," David explained, underscoring the intensity of the semi-final battle.
The acknowledgment from a legendary coach like Tim Cone serves as both a major compliment and a challenge for the young guard. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on David to see if he can continue to embody the versatile, dynamic, and hard-nosed style of the NBA star he's now compared to.
