FILE–coach Jong Uichico joins NLEX Road Warriors. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines–Jong Uichico is making a comeback on the PBA sidelines after being tapped by NLEX to become part of its coaching staff.
The Road Warriors made the announcement Sunday, saying that Uichico will serve as a lead assistant to coach Frankie Lim beginning with Friday’s game against the Blackwater Bossing in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
“I’m thankful to the NLEX organization for trusting me with this role,” Uichico said in a statement after team announced his hiring. “I’m looking forward to working with coach Frankie, the rest of the coaching staff, and the players and I’m excited to once again be a part of the PBA as a coach.”
NLEX Road Warriors tap Jong Uichico as lead assistant#ArangkadaNLEX #NLEX #PBA2023 🔵🟠#ReadMore here 👇https://t.co/35cI0NQCmG
— NLEX Road Warriors (@ArangkadaNLEX) December 17, 2023
Uichico has not been under a PBA team since 2016 when he was still calling the shots for TNT. He has since been part of the Gilas Pilipinas staff, became mentor of Bataan in the MPBL and oversees the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Coaches Academy.
NLEX is pinning its hopes that Uichico’s experience that includes being a nine-time champion coach will be a valuable addition to a squad currently on a slump in the Commissioner’s Cup.
After a 2-2 start, the Road Warriors dropped their next four matches.
The Road Warriors have been busy making moves this conference, also acquiring Robert Bolick from NorthPort in a three-team trade.
The team also announced Sunday that Bolick inked a three-year contract.