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| Amid a possible move to La Salle, Topex Robinson is relinquishing the Phoenix head coaching reins to Jamike Jarin. Dennis Acosta (file photo) |
MANILA--Phoenix is entering a new chapter in its PBA stint as Topex Robinson has stepped down as its head coach.
The team confirmed on Thursday that it has parted ways with Robinson after five seasons in total, three as the main man at the bench.
"We thank coach Topex for his 5 years of service with Phoenix, and wish him the very best as he pursues other endeavors," the Fuel Masters said in a statement.
Under Robinson, they finally made the PBA semifinals in the 2020 bubble season and even came close to making the finals.
In the 2022-23 Commissioner's Cup, Robinson steered Phoenix to five straight wins after a 0-3 start which came amid rumors that the franchise could be put up for sale.
The team eventually made the quarterfinals but was eliminated by Magnolia.
The Fuel Masters did not divulge the endeavors Robinson will be in, but he is linked to a move back to the amateur ranks as one of the candidates for the De La Salle Green Archers coaching job.
Meanwhile, Jamike Jarin, a known champion in the amateurs, will get a taste of head coaching a professional team as he has been named interim coach for Phoenix's campaign in the PBA Governors' Cup.
Robinson brought in Jarin as one of his assistant coaches when the former replaced Louie Alas as the Fuel Masters head coach.
"Coach Jamike has been with the team since 2020 and has played a significant role in the team's building and development process," Phoenix further said.
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