Former University of Santo Tomas men’s basketball team coach Aldin Ayo will now handle the Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3×3 team seeing action in FIBA tournaments.
Mr. Ayo was unveiled Monday afternoon as the new head coach of the renamed squad, which will now be known as Manila Chooks TM.
The 43-year-old champion coach took the place of Eric Altamirano, who resigned from his post effective Nov. 1 following a two-year run that saw the Philippines rise to contention in 3×3.
“I’m very grateful because, for me, this will bring another dimension to my coaching career,” Mr. Ayo said as he was introduced to the players as well as Manila Mayor Isko Moreno inside City Hall.
“Throughout my coaching career, it was the full-length of the court, but this time will be different. I can’t wait to try out new schemes for half-court,” he added.
Despite the new name, Manila Chooks TM will still be bannered top 3×3 player in the country Joshua Munzon, no. 2 Alvin Pasaol, no. 5 Troy Rike, and no. 6 Santi Santillan.
“Coach Ayo is my personal choice,” said Bounty Agro Ventures Inc. president and 3×3 patron Ronald Mascariñas, underscoring the proven track record of Mr. Ayo, a champion coach in both the University Athletic Association of the Philippines and National Collegiate Athletic Association.
“He is the most decorated coach in college right now and we are excited that he is now here with us,” Mr. Mascariñas further said.
Mr. Ayo admitted that he is still in the process of learning his way in coaching 3×3 basketball but is looking forward to the challenge.
Unfortunately, the team said Mr. Aup would not be able to join it as the squad sees action in the Doha Masters of the 2020 FIBA 3×3 World Tour later in the month but would start formal training with him before the year ends. — MASM
