Topex Robinson making most of Gilas stint as part of coaching staff

FILE – Coach Topex Robinson. INQUIRER PHOTO/TRISTAN TAMAYO

MANILA, Philippines–Over the course of his 12-year pro career, Topex Robinson was a couple of times a champion, and was even considered as the top defensive specialists in the country.

But never was he eyed to represent the country.

“Never considered. Never even talked about,” he said.

That all changed this earlier this month when he was tapped by Gilas Pilipinas Tab Baldwin as one of the deputies to interim coach Mark Dickel.

“It’s really something I’ve always wanted to be a part of. And it is here. Now. It’s just surreal,” he said.

Robinson, who broke into coaching prominence in his stint with Lyceum, knows this is the closest he’s going to get representing the flag.

The 45-year-old tactician is overflowing with gratitude that he is able to get his feet wet in the presence of the likes of Baldwin, Gilas’ former shot-caller; Dickel, who has made coaching stops in Albania and New Zealand; and even Alex Compton.

“I have to make the most out of this with these great basketball minds,” said Robinson. “Having so much time, being with them?

“If I even have to accompany them to the comfort room just to learn from them, why not?” he said in jest.

“This is all going to help me,” said Robinson. “So I’m not really letting this opportunity go without me learning.”