THUS far, Chot Reyes has been getting the better of his former player LA Tenorio in their coaching matchup in the PBA 50th Season Governors’ Cup quarterfinals between TNT and Magnolia.
Still, the Hotshots rookie mentor has all the respect of the only person to win the Coach of the Year award a record seven times.
Despite the Tropang 5G holding a 2-0 edge in the best-of-five playoffs, Reyes said that doesn’t change his perception of the 42-year-old Tenorio, who once played for him at Gilas Pilipinas.
“A lot of respect. LA has been coaching a long time, matagal nang coach yan,” said the multi-titled mentor “Ngayon lang siya tinawag na coach, pero matagal na siyang nagko-coach.”
Tenorio took the helm of the Magnolia coaching staff at the start of this season, taking over from Chito Victolero.
While the Hotshots have made all the succeeding playoffs with him in charge, this conference has been the first time they have emerged as top seed heading to the quarterfinals.
No let-up from LA
Unfortunately, Magnolia finds itself heading to an early exit after a 91-73 loss in Game 2, putting it in a must-win on Saturday in order to stretch its season.
READ: Tenorio in rare bench outburst, first to leave Magnolia dugout after loss
And Reyes knows much about the warrior mentality of his former national team player.
“Even while he was playing, he’s already been the coach on the floor. He sees the game very well, he connects with his players very well,” said the TNT shot-caller.
“So I’m sure they’re going to come up with a critical adjustment in the next game, so we have to be ready.”
Whatever happens in the series, Reyes will always hold Tenorio in high regard.
As he put it, “My feeling is pure respect and pride, of course, because of where he is now and what he has accomplished in his career.”
“But at the same time, I am not surprised because from way back I know he will make an excellent coach.”
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