From ‘nobody’ to former pro, Cuan gets big break as PH head coach in ABL

Alab Pilipinas head coach Mac Cuan during the 2017 ABL Season press conference at Solaire Resort and Casino. Mark Giongco/INQUIRER.net

After starting as a video coordinator four years ago, Mac Cuan didn’t expect to finally get the break he was waiting for.

Cuan was officially announced as head coach of Alab Pilipinas in the Asean Basketball League on Monday during the 2017 ABL Season press conference at Solaire Resort and Casino.

“I’ve been in coaching for almost four, five years. I’ve been praying, but I wasn’t expecting an opportunity this quick,” Cuan said.

The former La Salle guard said that like his players, he is also out to prove himself as a first time head coach.

“The team is waiting for this opportunity, same with me. We’re all excited and we’re all ready to prove ourselves.”

Cuan is embracing the pressure that comes with coaching a Philippine team in the ABL, but added he doesn’t want his players to feel the weight of it as the team tries to bring back the title to Manila.

“We’re up for the challenge. It’s given that every time the Philippines joins ABL, we do good. What I just want to say is I don’t want the players to feel the pressure. I’ll take the pressure,” he said.

The 38-year-old Cuan said he owes veteran coaches Jong Uichico and the late great Ron Jacobs for giving him a chance to play. He also cited the two as the ones who influenced him to pursue a coaching career.

Cuan said he also learned a lot from the teams and leagues he played in where he was fortunate enough to win championships, including a three-peat with La Salle in the UAAP.

“They were the ones who gave me my break. I was a nobody. I just tried out for La Salle, got in the team by Team B, and after a year, I was Team A. From there, I really saw how they relate to players,” Cuan recalled.

“I’ve been also lucky enough to be part of winning teams, from elementary, high school, college and PBL, I won a championship. One thing I can share with players, that championship vibe, it’s not about talent alone, it takes a lot of things to win a championship. Playing each other, liking each other, helping each other.”