Globaport owner takes gamble as ‘cerebral’ Ticzon named interim coach

MANILA, Philippines — Globalport’s efforts to retool its roster didn’t just stop at the draft haul and player trades in the past few weeks.

On Saturday, the young Batang Pier franchise ushered in a new, yet interim, head coach, too, as they tapped former Ateneo star and PBA player Richie Ticzon.

Owner Mikee Romero made the announcement after Globalport defeated Alaska in a tune-up game, 102-92, with Ticzon calling the shots at the Gatorade Hoops gym.

“I slept over it. I was thinking about it over and over until we decided to bring in somebody new, who doesn’t have a PBA experience in coaching,” Romero said.

“But I will take the gamble, wherever he takes us, I will take it. Win or lose, we’ll stand by our decision.”

Ticzon coached in the PBA D-League alongside Nash Racela and now Batang Pier assistant Eric Gonzales for the Fruitas Shakers last year in the Aspirants’ Cup.

Romero also said that Globalport management explored other options, but went for Ticzon with the 2013 PBA Philippine Cup barely two weeks away.

“He [Ticzon] is a cerebral coach, in such a way that he understands the game. I will take the risk,” also said Romero of his franchise’s temporary mentor.

Ticzon took over Junel Baculi, whom Romero said had “other commitments.” Baculi is also National University’s athletic director.

The Batang Pier, who acquired nine new players in the off season either from trades or the draft, are fighting to set a new franchise record after reaching the quarterfinals for the first time last conference.

“We still have a lot work on,” the business tycoon/sportsman said in Filipino. “Chemistry is a big issue but I can see good prospect [in this team].”