The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas appointed Alfrancis Chua as new program director and team manager for Gilas Pilipinas.
Gilas coach Tim Cone wanted Alfrancis Chua to be by his side when the national team goes to battle in the second window of FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers and beyond.
Cone got what he wanted.
[RELATED STORY: Tim Cone wants Alfrancis Chua on the bench in Gilas’ Asia Cup qualifiers campaign]
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas announced on Wednesday, Nov. 20 the appointment of Chua as program director and team manager for Gilas Youth and Men.
Concurrent Ginebra playmaker LA Tenorio will call the shots for the Youth team.
“I’m happy I’ll be able to help Gilas in this capacity,” said Chua, who is also serving as Ginebra governor.
“I thank boss RSA for giving me his blessing in taking this new role and I look forward to working with coach Tim and LA.”
[ALSO READ: Justin Brownlee, returning Scottie Thompson headline Gilas 12 for FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers]
SBP president Al Panlilio is glad to formalize Chua's role in the national team program, which is eyeing a spot in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
“I am very happy that Alfrancis is back with Gilas. I work well with him and our only objective is to elevate Philippine basketball,” Panlilio said of the concurrent PBA vice chairman.
[ALSO READ: Gilas Pilipinas rises to no. 2 in FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers power rankings]
Cone echoed his sentiment, adding Chua's presence on the bench does wonders for the team in more ways than one.
"It was great having him on the bench motivating the players. He is such a great motivator. That's one of the things that we hope to enhance the program with his presence,” said Cone.
“He has always been there for me to consult with and talk with. And of course, we had that great run in the Asian Games which was fantastic.”
[ALSO READ: Sean Chambers brings ‘breath of fresh air’ for Gilas, says Tim Cone]