Norman Black out as Meralco coach, Luigi Trillo takes over at Bolts' helm

The Meralco Bolts on Monday announced several changes to its coaching staff as they gear up for the new PBA season.

In a statement, Meralco management said Norman Black has ended his nine-year tenure as the Meralco coach and will now be replaced by longtime assistant coach Luigi Trillo.

Black, however, won't be leaving completely as he will still serve as team consultant. Meralco also appointed Nenad Vucinic as an active consultant.

"I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the Meralco management and the MVP group for supporting myself and the Bolts," Black said in a statement.

"In addition, I wish to thank the players and my coaching staff for their hard work and positive attitudes in their efforts to make the team successful over the years. I now look forward to helping the team in my capacity as team consultant in our continued quest to bring a championship to the Meralco franchise."

During his term, Black led the team to new heights in its quest for a championship: making it to the PBA Semifinals in 6 of the 7 most recent conferences, and qualifying for the Finals in four editions of the Governors' Cup.

"We thank Coach Norman for his unwavering commitment and the indelible mark he has left on the organization. We are also grateful to have Coach Nenad and Coach Luigi taking on new roles in leading the Bolts," said team manager Paolo Trillo.

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News