PBA: Jong Uichico replaces Frankie Lim as NLEX head coach

Jong Uichico steps in as the new NLEX coach. NLEX Road Warriors
By Ivan Saldajeno

PARANAQUE--NLEX is entering a new age in the PBA as Jong Uichico takes over the head coaching post.

The team announced on Friday that the multi-titled coach has replaced Frankie Lim as its chief tactician.

“The NLEX Road Warriors are excited to take this new journey with coach Jong Uichico,” said NLEX Corporation president Luigi Bautista.

Since becoming a PBA head coach in 1999, Uichico, a former member of the Northern Cement-backed national team during the mid-1980s, mentored all the teams he was leading, San Miguel, Ginebra, and TNT, to championships, amassing nine titles all in all.

“He brings a wealth of experience to the squad and a clear idea of what it takes to win a championship as the fourth-winningest coach in PBA history,” Bautista said.

Uichico joined the Road Warriors coaching staff this season as one of Lim's assistants but got promoted after the latter bid goodbye after two years with them.

“We are grateful to coach Frankie Lim for his dedication to the Road Warriors and we thank him for his contributions,” said NLEX Governor Ronald Dulatre.

Uichico will inherit a team led by streak-shooting combo guard Robert Bolick and surprise packages Jhan Nermal and Enoch Valdez.

Kevin Alas, who is recovering from an ACL injury, is expected to return to the club as well next season.

Follow him on X: @IvanSaldajeno