Jimmy Mariano
Jaime L. Mariano, also known as Jimmy "Mr. Cool" Mariano, is a Filipino former basketball player and coach. Mariano was born in Malabon, Rizal, Philippines. Standing at 6'3 1/2" without shoes, he played primarily the power forward position and could play the small forward and center positions. He became famous as a player for the UE Red Warriors team under Coach Baby Dalupan. He played for Ysmael Steel, Meralco and Concepcion Industries in the Manila Industrial and Commercial Athletic Association. He became known as a deadly shooting big man from the outside before the three point line was popularized. He was elevated to the Philippine Basketball Association in 1975 with Concepcion Carrier. He played for 7 Up from 1976 to 1977. The 7-Up franchise was acquired in 1978 by Filmanbank and Mariano played his final season with Filmanbank.
Mariano also appeared at the Olympic Games as a member of the country's national basketball team and 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, Mexico. Mariano was the flag bearer of the Philippines at the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany.
Mariano began his coaching career in 1981 with Presto Fun Drinks in the PBA. He also coached Red Bull in the Philippine Basketball League. In 1990, he returned to Presto and led the team to the 1990 PBA All-Filipino championship, his only PBA title.
