MANILA, Philippines - Balik-ensayo ang Barangay Ginebra ngayong umaga sa Xavier Gym pagkatapos ng New Year’s break sa ilalim ng kanilang bagong head coach na si Alfrancis Chua na nagsabing exci-ted ngunit kinakabahan sa pagmamando ng pinakasikat na team sa PBA upang muling maging title contender.
Inabisuhan si Chua, 46-gulang, ukol sa kanyang bagong trabaho ni Robert Non, ang Ginebra representative sa PBA Board of Trustees at kasaluku-yang PBA chairman isang araw bago ang Bagong Taon.
“Honestly, I was shocked when Boss Robert called,†sabi ni Chua. “The next day, which was Jan. 1, we met for about three hours to discuss plans and directions. This is a rare opportunity to become the head coach of the PBA’s most popular team. I know there are high expectations from the fans. That’s why I’m both excited and scared. I immediately consulted my family. They’re supporting me all the way. Coach Siot (Tanquingcen) told me it’s a blessing, to make the most of it.â€
Sinabi ni Chua na ang una niyang inisip ay ang kumonsulta kay Tanquingcen na siyang papalitan nito. Si Tanquingcen ay bababa bilang assistant coach. “I respect coach Siot, he knows that,†sabi ni Chua na pumasok sa Ginebra bilang consultant noong nakaraang taon.