JERWIN Gaco is seen more in his adventures with the PBA Motoclub nowadays, joining his fellow ex-pros in legends games and motorcycle rides.
But little did people know that this former PBA journeyman is now a full-fledged coach, working as an assistant coach in University of Makati for close to two years now.
"Pinasok lang din ako ng mga boss ko," Gaco, 45, told SPIN.ph.
READ Gaco recalls missed UE tryout - denying chance of early team-up with Yap
To no one's surprise, the former PBA player is working as a big man coach, guiding the forwards and centers of the Great Brave Herons under coach Mike Pacasio.
Gaco, owner of five PBA championships including a grand slam during his time with the Purefoods/ B-Meg franchise, said he's taking his job seriously especially with practices set for Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
"Maluwag naman sa schedule kaya pasok na pasok yung mga ensayo sa UMak," he shared.
But don't be fooled by his jovial and fun-loving persona that his fans have come to love.
When it comes to coaching, he's just as tough as he was on the court.
"Syempre kilala tayo ng tao na palabiro, pero sa mga players alam nila kung sino ako. May kalalagyan talaga sila pag di sila sumunod," he said.
That was in full display during the 2026 Smart-NBTC Metro Manila Regional Championship where JC2 Architecture Studio x UMak made it as far as the semifinals, losing only to a game-winning layup in a game against Arceegee-St. Clare Saints on Friday.
While the loss stings, Gaco had one short, encouraging message to his players.
"Syempre malungkot na natalo ka sa ganoon, pero naipakita na ng players dito yung pinaghihirapan nila, na nakaka-compete na sila sa ganitong level," he said.
Get more of the latest sports news & updates on SPIN.ph
NOTICE ON UNAUTHORIZED AND UNLAWFUL USE, PUBLICATION, AND/OR DISSEMINATION OF SPIN.PH CONTENT: Please be notified that any unauthorized and unlawful use, publication, and/or dissemination of Spin.ph’s content and/or materials is a direct violation of its legal and exclusive rights to the same, and shall be subject to appropriate legal action/s.
