LA Tenorio named new Gilas Youth head coach

Metro Manila, Philippines — LA Tenorio has been named the new head coach of Gilas Youth, the Samahan ng Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announced on Tuesday. LA Tenorio has been named the new head coach of Gilas Youth, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announced on Tuesday.

The 40-year-old is taking over the position from Josh Reyes who stepped down last September.

Tenorio has prior experience of holding assistant coaching duties with the Gilas men's seniors team and the Letran Knights in the NCAA.

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

Tenorio donned the country’s colors for over a decade, which is highlighted by his game-winner in the Philippines’ stunning win over the United States in the 2012 William Jones Cup.

He was also part of the Gilas squad which nabbed silver in the 2013 FIBA Asia Championship as well as the national team that saw action in the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain.

Tenorio's appointment comes with his solid connection with Gilas men’s team led by Tim Cone.

Cone is the head coach of Barangay Ginebra in the PBA, while Tenorio serves as his longtime court general.

“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,” SBP executive director Erika Dy said.

Tenorio expressed his excitement over this new opportunity to mold future stars.

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

"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,” he added.