Coaching impasse stops tryout

With Ron Jacobs still in sickbed nearly three weeks after suffering a stroke last December, PBA commissioner Jun Bernardino has decided to tap a new coach for the Philippine team to this year’s Asian Games in Busan, Korea.

Bernardino made the announcement in the tryout being conducted by interim national coach Jong Uichico at the Moro Lorenzo Sports Center inside Ateneo yesterday, saying he’s temporarily calling off the preparations for the Asian Games pending the appointment of a new mentor.

"Though progressing by the day, the condition of coach Ron offers no definite timetable as to his return, hence, the suspension of his program," said Bernardino in a press statement.

"We count on all our fans to continue praying for the recovery of Mr. Jacobs and we thank all those players who showed up and expressed willingness to play for flag and country in the Asian Games," he added.

At presstime, Bernardino was attending the PBA board of governors annual general meeting at the Manila Golf Club. The commissioner was expected to discuss with the board members the most logical replacement for Jacobs.

Actually, Bernardino offered the position to Uichico as early as last week but the San Miguel mentor politely declined, apparently feeling he’s not yet ready for the job (as head coach).

Thus, the commissioner deemed it best to temporarily discontinue the Asian Games preparations until the appointment of a new coach is made.

The Asian Games buildup of the Philippine team will start from scratch, unless the replacement of Jacobs decides to adopt the program put up by the American mentor.

Under Jacobs’ program, two candidates teams will be formed and see action in the opening conference of the 2002 PBA season. After which, he will name his final 15 players then step up their preparations with a stint in the PBA second conference.

The league has re-calendared its schedule of activities to accommodate the program of Jacobs.

Jacobs has named 17 players to the candidates pool. These are Danny Ildefonso, Danny Seigle, Eric Menk, Asi Taulava, Don Camaso, Rudy Hatfield, Poch Juinio, Marlou Aquino, Dennis Espino, Jeffrey Cariaso, Kenneth Duremdes, Don Camaso, Davonn Harp, Mick Pennisi, Andy Seigle, Noy Castillo and Chris Jackson.

Vying for the remaining slots in the pool are Johnny Abarrientos, Olsen Racela, Boyet Fernandez, Patrick Fran, Dondon Hontiveros, EJ Feihl, Romel Adducul, Rafi Reavies, Omanzie Rodriguez, Chris Calaguio, Chris Clay, Jeffrey Flowers, Mike Cortez, Renren Ritualo, Rob Johnson, Jimmy Alapag and Sunday Salvacion.

Uichico and deputies Allan Caidic and Eric Altamirano were to name the complete list on Jan. 25.

Apparently, Bernardino deemed it best to tap Uichico to replace Jacobs since the San Miguel coach is expected to adopt the program of his mentor (Jacobs). Besides, it is San Miguel Corp. which has reiterated its commitment to support the country’s Asian Games participation all the way to Busan.