Glenn Capacio new Philippine Patriots coach

MANILA, Philippines—Glenn Capacio, who earned his coaching stripes at Far Eastern U and Oracle Residences in the PBL, will call the shots for the AirAsia Philippine Patriots in the third season of the AirAsia Asean Basketball League kicking off in January.

Known for putting emphasis on defense, Capacio will try to steer the Patriots back to their lofty perch in the league. The Patriots won the title in the inaugural edition of the ABL before settling for runner-up honors early this year.

Capacio’s appointment, announced by co-team owner Mikee Romero and team manager Erick Arejola Monday, puts an end to speculations as to who will replace Louie Alas, who begged off to rest.

The Patriots are actually undergoing a roster overhaul with Marcy Arellano, Jonathan Fernandez, Eddie Laure and Reed Juntilla now joining the squad.

Capacio, a defensive specialist during his days as a player in the PBA, is no stranger to Romero, having steered the Oracle Titans (Harbour Centre) to the PBL title in 2009, the franchise’s seventh and last title in the PBL.

Tony Boy Cojuangco, the Patriots’ co-owner, supported the appointment of Capacio, saying he is a “competent coach with a good record as a player and a top defender during his prime.”

Romero believes Capacio, one of Norman Black’s assistant with the national team in the Southeast Asian Games, can take the Patriots back on top.