ALDIN Ayo finally confirmed that he will be taking on the coaching job for the Muntinlupa Cagers in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League.
The enigmatic Ayo said that they’ve already started practicing last Monday as he looks to build on the hot start of the Cagers who remain the only unbeaten squad in the tournament with an 8-0 slate.
His reason? Simple. It’s all about continuously growing.
“Remember what I told you when I left La Salle? Personal growth? Ito yun. Kung marami kang cinocoachan na ganito, you’ll learn e,” said Ayo after UST’s 79-71 loss against Adamson.
“Actually, kahit busy, kahit maraming ginagawa, I’m excited kasi natututo ako sa mga players kasi ibang level yun,” he added.
Before making the move official, Ayo made sure to clear it first with the Tigers management – and he said that he quickly got the blessing from the higher-ups.
After all, Ayo’s used to keeping himself busy.
“Before I committed to Muntinlupa, I asked permission from managers especially kay Fr. Jennel (Abugado), alam naman nila na kaya ng schedule ko,” Ayo explained.
“I’m used to this naman e, nasa Sorsogon ako nagttrabaho ako 12-14 hours, ngayon mga 10 hours lang e. Okay lang din basta basketball,” he added.
With Ayo joining the Cagers, this could potentially set-up a match-up with his assistant coach Randy Alcantara who’s handling the San Juan Knights in the same league.
Ayo vows that they’re gonna be professional with it, and he’s gonna do whatever it takes to take to push the Cagers over the hump.
“Actually pinaguusapan din namin, pero very professional naman. We’re gonna compete with each other. If it happens, for sure, we’re gonna bring out the best sa bawat isa sa amin,” Ayo said.
“Same system, kung saan kami manalo, doon kami yun ang gagawin namin.”
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