MANILA, Philippines—Alex Compton has stepped down as head coach of Alaska after 15 conferences and Jeffrey Cariaso has been tasked to take over his spot.
“We are very sorry to see Alex leave the team. He had a tremendous impact on the team and was very concerned with the players’ well-being on and off the court,” said Alaska in the statement Thursday.
“We also share that winning (with integrity) is an important aspect of our team and are grateful that Alex stepped aside to pave the way for someone to lead the Aces to our next championship,” added Uytengsu.
Compton was often regarded as one of the better coaching minds in the league having led the Aces to five Finals series in the five years he’s handled Alaska.
Apart from his basketball culture, Compton spearheaded Alaska’s familial culture on and off the floor pushing his players to participate in social responsibilities.
Compton said he accepted Uytengsu’s request to step down from his post and allow Cariaso, the team’s deputy head coach, to take the reins.
“Yesterday at his house, a man I deeply respect, Fred Uytengsu, sat down with me, looked me in the eye and asked me to step down,” said Compton in the statement. “I accepted his direction and have agreed to resign as head coach of the Alaska Aces.”
“It has been an honor to coach such a storied franchise. I have made great relationships and have a lot of love for people in the organization. Being a part of the Alaska family has meant a lot to me and my family, and we will always treasure our time with the Aces,” added Compton.
Taking Compton’s place is Cariaso who has been an Alaska icon since his playing days, helping the team to the 1996 Grand Slam and returning in 2010 as the veteran voice in the Fiesta Cup triumph.
Cariaso, for his part, thanked Uytengsu for the trust that was given to him in steering the Aces to a new direction.
“Truly a blessing to elevate into this level of leadership. I am honored for the opportunity and genuinely humbled as I face the challenge,” said Cariaso. “Thank you Sir Fred and management for the trust. Certainly I will give my best, nothing else.”