PBA legends to take over Adamson coaching staff

(from left to right) Kenneth Duremdes, Marlou Aquino and Vince Hizon. Photo from Hizon’s Facebook account.

MANILA, Philippines — PBA legend Kenneth Duremdes will officially succeed Leo Austria as Adamson’s head coach in the next UAAP season, and he has tapped two other greats to join his staff.

Duremdes will take over the coaching reins for Falcons starting November 1, following Austria’s decision not to renew his contract with Adamson, which expires at the end of October, after seven years.

“We spoke to [coach Leo] with the [university] president. He was expressing his intention to rest and he said he would like to give the school a free hand for changes,” team manager Gilbert Cruz said in a phone call.

Duremdes, who has served as an assistant coach for Adamson in the past seasons, was an easy choice.

“He being a Falcon, and maybe the most decorated Falcon ever. Kaya siya pinili namin kapalit,” Cruz also said.

Cruz also confirmed that Duremdes, one of the PBA 25 greatest players, has signed on former Ginebra players Marlou Aquino and Vince Hizon to help with the team.

“Everything is coach Kenneth’s decision. Iba ang approach ni coach Kenneth. Gusto nya, 1 to 3 lang,” Cruz said.

In a Facebook post by Hizon, he said that he was tasked to help the team with “individual shooting skills and offense,” while Aquino will “work with the bigs.”

“…I think it’s time to impart the things I’ve learned to the next generation of student athletes. It’s also an opportunity to work with old friends from basketball and have an impact on the youth,” Hizon said.