More 1980s basketball photos

The early months in Purefoods Hotdogs' PBA history

As the Purefoods franchise celebrates its 30th anniversary in the PBA this year, we look back at the early months of the ballclub during the pre-season of  1988. It was in January of that year when Purefoods was formally accepted by the league, buying out the disbanded Tanduay franchise.

Purefoods is arguably the most celebrated newcomer to join the pro league. The team was able to signed three of the most popular amateurs and national team players that time, Jojo Lastimosa, Jerry Codinera and Alvin Patrimonio (started playing in the 2nd conference). An added excitement they create in the PBA was naming Ramon Fernandez as their playing-coach. 

Jojo Lastimosa was the most charismatic rookie to enter the PBA in the 1980s as all eyes were on him during the first three games of the Purefoods Hotdogs.