Koy Banal new Arellano Chiefs coach

MANILA, Philippines—Koy Banal, one of the few coaches who has won titles in both the UAAP and NCAA, has been appointed coach of NCAA squad Arellano University, replacing Leo Isaac.

Banal will take over a squad that has never made the Final Four since they joined the league in 2009.

“I’m excited to be back in college basketball,” said Banal, whose last head coaching stint was in 2006 when he steered San Beda to the NCAA title.

Determined to boost the Chiefs’ status in the country’s oldest collegiate league, Banal, who actually played college ball for Arellano in the 1980s, said he will put emphasis on recruitment as he attempts to rebuild the squad that won just six games last season.

“We will be keeping a keen eye on talent both locally and internationally,” said Banal.

Banal won two titles with Far Eastern U, including in 2004 after La Salle was stripped off the crown for fielding ineligible players in their title run. Banal steered FEU three times in five years during his tenure.