Louie Alas out as Patriots sign up Billy Ray Bates

MANILA, Philippines—The AirAsia Philippine Patriots have tapped PBA Hall of Famer Billy Ray Bates to join their coaching staff while starting their search for a replacement for head coach Louie Alas.

Bates, one of the PBA’s all-time best imports, will be the skills coach of the Patriots, who are among the favorites in Season 3 of the Asean Basketball League starting next January.

“He’s a legend in the PBA, so we believe he can share and teach whatever he knows to our players,” said Harbour Centre CEO Mikee Romero, who co-owns the team with businessman Tonyboy Cojuangco.

Alas begged off from an offer to remain as coach, saying he needs a “coaching break” after calling the shots year-round for Letran in the NCAA and the Patriots.

The Patriots will field a revamped roster led by Far Eastern U’s Aldrech Ramos and former University of the East ace Marcy Arellano.

Bates, who received his PBA Hall of Fame award last week, recently expressed his desire to work as a coach here just like former top imports Bobby Parks and Norman Black.

“Bates is a welcome addition to the team,” said Cojuangco. “His presence, I’m sure, will be a great source of inspiration to our players.”

Bates, now 55, holds the all-time best scoring norm for PBA imports at 46.2 points in four seasons.

Nicknamed as “Black Superman,” Bates won the Best Import plum twice when Crispa bagged its second Grand Slam in 1983.

“He was really happy to be part of the team and he’s now looking forward to the start of our training,” team manager Erick Arejola said of Bates, who worked in a recycling company in the United States.

Two of the names floated to replace Alas are San Sebastian coach Topex Robinson and former PBA guard Ronnie Magsanoc.