LA TENORIO recently joined Magnolia practices, not just as a coach but as a player during the lead-up to their important game against Meralco in the PBA 50th Season Governors’ Cup eliminations.
Tenorio, who turned 42 on July 9, did the ‘playing’ in his capacity as playing coach over the past few days as the Hotshots prepared for the game against the Bolts where they were seeking to avoid a 0-3 hole.
Magnolia was successful in ending its flat start, beating Meralco, 112-98, on Friday.
READ: Magnolia finally breaks duck at Meralco's expense
As for him practicing with the team, Tenorio made it clear that it was not done because a return to playing is imminent.
“Hindi,” Tenorio said when asked if he is set to come back as a playing coach.
“Malaking bagay lang na makita nila ‘yung gusto kong ipagawa sa kanila. Napaganda naman kahit papaano,” he added.
Tenorio last played for Magnolia during the season-opening Philippine Cup quarterfinals where the Hotshots lost to TNT, 118-109, last December 27, 2025. Though he hasn’t played a PBA game in seven months, Tenorio is still registered as a playing coach for Magnolia, and is eligible to be activated for this conference.
Tenorio’s presence in practice as a playing coach proved to be beneficial for the team, except for Tenorio’s body.
“Napaganda naman kahit papano na maganda ‘yung response ng mga players. Medyo masama lang sa akin kasi dalawang araw ako nasa kama, sumakit ‘yung katawan ko” Tenorio said.
Nevertheless, it was a good omen for Magnolia as it was able to break out of a losing slump to start the Governors’ Cup.
“It was a good response for my players. It just showed na laban kami dito,” Tenorio said.
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