LA Tenorio named new Gilas Pilipinas Youth coach

From representing the country to calling the shots.

Barangay Ginebra star LA Tenorio has taken over as the new Gilas Pilipinas Youth coach, replacing Josh Reyes at the helm as the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) looks to retool the youth program.

“The SBP is excited to have a true sportsman and role model in LA Tenorio as our Gilas Pilipinas Youth head coach,” said SBP president Al Panlilio.

"When we first talked to LA about the idea, he was open to the challenge immediately and he even had a short list of coaches that he wanted to work with. He’s a natural leader and a winner on and off the court. He will teach our young athletes lessons they will use not only in basketball but in life as well.”

Tenorio has been an icon for the national team.

He has represented the flag for a long time, having been part of the 2012 Gilas Pilipinas team that won the Jones Cup and seized the silver medal during the 2013 FIBA Asia Championship under then head coach Chot Reyes. The multi-titled guard was also part of the powerhouse national team sent to compete during the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain.

Tenorio's assignment assured continuity in the country's basketball program as the former has been playing under Gilas Pilipinas Men head coach Tim Cone for both Ginebra and the national team.

He will now share his knowledge and experience with the Gilas Youth program.

"Coach Tim is big on continuity and that has been the reason why we've had a small pool for Gilas ever since he took over," said SBP Executive Director Erika Dy.

“Appointing Coach LA as head of our age group teams in the youth level strengthens that process. The goal is to complete the player journey from our grassroots to the elite level, and having a Youth coach who knows the system of coach Tim by heart will be beneficial for everyone involved.”

Tenorio, for his part, admitted pressure that come with his new task but welcomed this challenge.

“There’s a lot of pressure in the role because I’ll have big shoes to fill,” Tenorio said.

“What Coach Josh Reyes accomplished by making it to two World Cups is not an easy feat but I’m excited to work with our young players and help them reach their full potential. I already talked to Coach Tim and I’ll be running a similar system so our Youth players can easily transition to the Men’s team.”

—JMB, GMA Integrated News