Compton downplays coaching duel with Alas: ‘I did not outcoach him’

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/ INQUIRER.net

Alex Compton and Louie Alas have shared history way before they held the coaching partnership at Alaska.

Before Compton dabbled in coaching, he was playing under Alas in the now defunct Metropolitan Basketball Association with the Manila Metrostars.

Compton eventually became the head coach of the Aces in 2014 and tapped Alas as his head assistant.

READ: Alaska whips Phoenix five

On Wednesday, he had his first win over his former mentor as Alaska ransacked Alas’ Phoenix, 93-75, but Compton won’t say that he outsmarted his former coach.

“I did not for one second outcoach him,” said Compton as his Aces improved to 5-2 at Mall of Asia Arena. “I’ve learned a lot from him, and as friends I hope that I continue to learn from him. This is just a game where our guys played really well.”

The Aces virtually ended the game as early as the halftime break when they led the Fuel Masters 48-24.

READ: Alaska continues streak, decimates Phoenix

Alaska built the foundation across the first two quarters when it went on a 21-4 run for a 34-14 lead off a Nonoy Baclao jumper.

Alas, who was flattered with Compton’s statements, said the Aces did a better job than what the Fuel Masters were able to muster.

“How nice of coach Alex to say that,” said Alas whose team slipped to 3-4. “They really outplayed us.”

READ: Alas can’t hide dismay after Phoenix blowout loss to former team

The Aces ran circles around the Fuel Masters, outscoring the latter 27-9 in fastbreak points and holding down Phoenix to a dismal 30-of-90 shooting.

“There are things in life that just work out,” said Compton. “We have a healthy bunch of guys that had a good game against his team.”