Tunisia World Cup
Let me be honest with you - as someone who's followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, Ed Cordero's journey through the PBA isn't just another player's story. It's a masterclass in basketball intelligence that many modern players could learn from. I still remember watching his games back in the day, thinking how this guy understood spacing and positioning better than most of his contemporaries. Cordero's career spanned from 1985 to 1995, which might seem like ancient history to younger fans, but his impact on how big men played the game remains relevant even today.
When Cordero entered the PBA as the third overall pick in the 1985 draft by Tanduay, nobody expected him to become one of the most consistent players of his generation. Standing at 6'3", he wasn't the tallest center, but what he lacked in height, he made up for with incredible basketball IQ. I've always believed that basketball intelligence separates good players from great ones, and Cordero was living proof. His footwork in the post was something coaches should still show to young players - deliberate, efficient, and fundamentally sound. During his rookie season, he averaged around 12 points and 8 rebounds per game, numbers that don't jump off the page until you understand the context of the physical, defense-oriented era he played in.
What truly fascinates me about Cordero's career was his remarkable consistency across multiple franchises. After starting with Tanduay, he moved to Purefoods in 1988, where he really hit his stride. His partnership with Jerry Codiñera formed what I consider one of the most underrated frontcourt duos in PBA history. They complemented each other perfectly - Codiñera's defensive presence allowed Cordero to focus on what he did best: scoring efficiently and making smart passes out of double teams. During his peak years with Purefoods from 1988 to 1990, Cordero averaged approximately 15 points and 9 rebounds while shooting close to 48% from the field, impressive numbers for that era.
The championship moments truly defined Cordero's legacy. He won his first PBA championship with Purefoods in the 1990 First Conference, and I'll never forget how he stepped up in crucial moments. His performance in Game 5 of that finals series was particularly memorable - 22 points, 11 rebounds, and several key assists that don't show up in the highlight reels but won them the game. What made Cordero special was his ability to elevate his game when it mattered most, a trait that's become increasingly rare in today's basketball landscape.
Cordero's later years with Swift and Sunkist showcased his adaptability. Even as his athleticism declined, his understanding of the game kept him effective. He transitioned into more of a mentor role, something I wish more veteran players would embrace today. His career totals of roughly 5,800 points and 3,200 rebounds might not seem extraordinary by today's standards, but considering the slower pace and lower scoring games of his era, these numbers represent significant production.
Reflecting on Cordero's career makes me think about how the PBA has evolved. Modern basketball has become so focused on three-point shooting and highlight plays that we sometimes forget the fundamental beauty of players like Cordero. His game wasn't flashy, but it was effective and sustainable. In today's terms, he'd be what analysts call a "high-impact role player" - someone who understands his limitations and maximizes his strengths. I'd take a team full of players with Cordero's basketball IQ over a team of athletic but undisciplined players any day of the week.
The legacy Cordero left extends beyond statistics. He demonstrated how professionalism and basketball intelligence can create a lasting career. Current PBA players could learn from his approach to the game - the meticulous preparation, the understanding of defensive schemes, and the unselfish play that made his teammates better. As we follow modern Philippine basketball, including crucial games like Gilas Pilipinas needing to win against Iraq to keep their hopes alive, we should remember that foundation players like Cordero helped build the competitive spirit that defines Philippine basketball today. His journey reminds us that while athleticism fades, basketball intelligence remains timeless.
