The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has announced that LA Tenorio, the experienced Barangay Ginebra San Miguel point guard, will take on the role of Head Coach for Gilas Pilipinas Youth. At 40 years old, Tenorio’s vast career in basketball has seen him thrive at every level, from playing in sixth grade to competing for top-tier teams in the PBA.

Tenorio’s journey started at Adamson University and continued through San Beda and Ateneo, where he played under notable coaches like Joe Lipa and Norman Black. After being drafted 4th overall in the 2006 PBA Draft, he earned his first PBA championship and Finals MVP in 2010 with Alaska under Tim Cone. His leadership continued with Barangay Ginebra, where he helped secure seven more PBA titles, three with him as the Finals MVP.

SBP President Al Panlilio expressed excitement over Tenorio’s appointment, praising him as a role model who can bridge the gap between grassroots and elite basketball. Tenorio’s close relationships with coach Norman Black, who oversees the grassroots program, and coach Tim Cone, who leads the elite teams, are seen as vital for the future of Filipino basketball.

“Coach LA’s leadership and winning mentality will be essential in shaping our young athletes. Not only will they learn valuable basketball skills, but also life lessons that will guide them beyond the court,” said Panlilio.

Tenorio’s international experience also stands out. He represented the Philippines in key tournaments like the 2012 Jones Cup, the 2013 FIBA Asia Championship (where the team earned silver), and the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

Before his coaching role with Gilas Youth, Tenorio served as an assistant coach at Letran and with Coach Tim Cone at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games, where the Philippines ended a 60-year gold medal drought.

SBP Executive Director Erika Dy highlighted that Tenorio’s knowledge of Coach Tim’s system will be crucial in developing players who can seamlessly transition from the youth ranks to the senior men’s team.

Tenorio acknowledged the pressure of following in the footsteps of his predecessor, Coach Josh Reyes, who led the team to two World Cup appearances. However, he expressed enthusiasm for the challenge and his commitment to helping the youth players reach their full potential, emphasizing a smooth transition to the senior team.

“I’m excited to take on this challenge and help develop our young players into future stars,” said Tenorio. “We’ll run a system similar to Coach Tim’s to ensure consistency and continuity for Gilas.”

Through his leadership, LA Tenorio aims to make a lasting impact on the future of Gilas Pilipinas and Filipino basketball.