Former Alaska deputy Chot Reyes 'saddened by turn of events' as Aces bid PBA farewell

Chot Reyes, one of the league's winningest mentors, started out his coaching career with the Alaska franchise.

The incumbent TNT tactician served as the team's assistant coach in early 90s under then head coach Tim Cone.

His stint with the Aces didn't last long as he transferred to Coney Island Ice Cream, but Reyes said he is sad to hear that Alaska is leaving the PBA.

"I'm deeply saddened by the turn of events but I guess, like I said, I told my players today, that's life," he said following TNT's 96-81 win over San Miguel Beer.

"We never really can tell. That's why we have to treasure it and we have to cherish it, and we have to play like it's our last game because we never really know."

Reyes also sent his empathy to Alaska team owner Fred Uytengsu who has been a great icon in Philippine basketball.

"And as saddened as I am, my heart goes out to Fred and all the supporters of Alaska," he said.

"It's a part of life and that's not the first time it happened in the PBA. The league has overcame it in the past."

—MGP, GMA News