JEFF Cariaso admitted calling the shots for Blackwater is one of the most challenging phases of his coaching career.
And the warrior that he is, he's not one to back down from such a demanding task.
READ: Jeff Cariaso out as Blackwater coach; Pat Aquino takes charge
In a statement, the veteran coach disclaimed that he stepped down from his post after deputy Patrick Aquino was named interim mentor of the Bossing in the ongoing PBA 50th Season Commissioner's Cup.
"I would like to clear any speculation that I resigned. I have always believed that the more demanding the path, the greater the responsibility to stay the course. I have always approached my work with that conviction, grounded in competitiveness and character," part of Cariaso's statement read.
"This was one of the most challenging assignments of my coaching career, and it was met with full commitment, and the clear intention to see it through."
The exit of Cariaso, who previously coached Barangay Ginebra, Alaska, and Converge, came after Blackwater lost its last two outings, including a 151-95 blowout at the hands of unbeaten league-leader Rain or Shine.
The Bossing currently sport a 1-4 record.
Blackwater management didn't reply to several text messages by SPIN.ph, but team insiders said the franchise is honoring Cariaso's contract that runs until June of this year.
Cariaso was named the franchise's coach in 2023 as replacement for Ariel Vanguardia, taking over a team that was coming off a 1-10 record at the end of the Season 47 Governors’ Cup.
But at the end of his three-year tenure, the Fil-Am guard, who was named into the PBA’s 50 Greatest Players last season, could only compile an overall record of 17-49, as the Bossing never made it to the playoffs under his watch.
During that stretch, Blackwater also kept selecting high in the rookie draft, taking Christian David No. 2 in Season 48, Sedrick Barefield also at the same spot in Season 49, then Dalph Panopio third overall in Season 50.
Best effort for Blackwater
Despite the struggles, Cariaso said he and his coaching staff put their best foot forward,
"I stand by the work we put in, the standards we upheld, and the professionalism we maintained throughout," said the 53-year-old coach.
"Effective today (April 11), I concluded my tenure as head coach of Blackwater Bossing following discussions with management and a mutual decision to move in different directions."
Cariaso was also grateful for the opportunity given him by the Bossing.
"My sincere thanks to Boss Dioceldo Sy, Boss Siliman Sy, and the rest of the management team for the opportunity and trust," he added.
"I leave with respect for the organization and wish the players and the team continued strength and success."
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