Gumabao to lead Philips Gold in Philippine Superliga

MANILA, Philippines—Philips Gold debuts in the Philippine Superliga this Saturday with Michele Gumabao as team leader.

“When I approached her, I told her that I will build the team around her,” said Philips Gold team manager Lawyer Eric Anthony Ty of the 22-year-old former collegiate star. “I think she’s pumped up with her new role because finally she has a team of her own.”

Practicing everyday to prepare for the season, Ty said Gumabao has gamely assumed the role as a leader.

“She’s a Kobe Bryant-type of a player, she’s a fighter,” added Ty. “Before (in previous conferences) she was just secondary to other team captains. But now she’s the franchise player and she knows it very well.”

Coach Francis Vicente said that while Gumabao will be the “alpha female,” he’s encouraging all members to be involved.

“I’m the type of coach who wants to utilize all the players on the bench,” said Vicente who coached the national club team to the Asian championships last year.