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| Ed Cordero, middle right, confirmed that he applied for the UST coaching job. |
By Ivan Saldajeno
MANILA--From out of nowhere, a University of Santo Tomas legend expressed his intent of coaching the Growling Tigers.
Legendary forward Ed Cordero revealed on Thursday that he applied for the head coaching post vacated by Aldin Ayo.
"I just sent an email yesterday kay Fr. [Ermito] De Sagon signifying my intention," Cordero, who starred for the then Glowing Goldies, said during the online Usapang Sports Forum by the Tabloid Organization in Philippine Sports.
Cordero became known for dropping 54 points for UST in a 1979 UAAP game, the last time a player scored 50 in the collegiate league
Former University of the East star Alvin Pasaol came just close to dropping with a 49-point blast in 2017.
Former University of the East star Alvin Pasaol came just close to dropping with a 49-point blast in 2017.
"My heart and soul, talagang UST," added Cordero, who would play for Toyota, Beer Hausen, Yco-Tanduay, Alaska, and Shell in the PBA.
If he gets the coaching job, Cordero will inherit a Growling Tigers lineup that has been depleted due to a mass exit of key players during the aftermath of an alleged training bubble put up by Ayo in his hometown of Capuy, Sorsogon.
"Kung sino ang natira, kailangang makausap sa lalong madaling panahon," Cordero bared his first intended task should he get the UST job. "We have to tell them na ganito ang plano."
Cordero also said that he will get busy too in recruiting new players, especially those who may fill the voids left by CJ Cansino, Brent Paraiso, Ira Bataller, Rhenz Abando, and Jun Asuncion.
"Napakabigat ng mga nawala," Cordero rued the departure of the aforementioned players.
Good thing for Cordero, UST still has rising star center Chabi Chabi Yo and forward Sherwin Concepcion, who Cordero knows personally considering Concepcion's high school days at Malayan.
Cordero is not new to college basketball coaching as he was once part of San Beda's coaching staff and recently served as deputy to Coach Atoy Co at Mapua.
Ayo resigned as Tigers coach a few days before the UAAP slapped him with an indefinite ban.
Among those being reportedly considered for the UST coaching job as well are Siot Tanquingcen, Chris Cantonjos, and Estong Ballesteros.
The three coaches were part of the Growling Tigers' four-peat teams during the mid 90's.
Interestingly enough, Tanquingcen is also being considered for National University's own vacant head coaching spot.
Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno_
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