Joseller ‘Yeng’ Guiao has finally walked away as the Gilas Pilipinas head coach right after the Philippine team returned home without a single win in the 2019 Fiba World Cup Campaign in China.
The Former Pampanga First District Rep. released a statement last Wednesday afternoon, stating that he took full responsibility for the team’s poor performance, as well his move to resign from the post.
“In light of all these developments, I am stepping down, as of today, as the Head Coach of the Gilas Men’s Basketball Team, in order to give the SBP a free hand in building and developing a program towards achieving our objective of competing with the best of the best,” he said.
Guiao, who replaced Chot Reyes last year, coached the National Team in 2018 Asian Games, where he handled Jordan Clarkson and taste a sweet fight after 16 years.
Moreover, the ex-head coach thanked the Gilas player, and mostly their families for the unending support and sacrifices.
He then cited the trust of Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan, and SBP President Al Panlilio for the opportunity to have been of service to the country in the sport he loves most.
“I am truly blessed to have coached the best that Philippine basketball has to offer and to have competed among the best in the world. I consider the past year, most especially our participation in the World Cup, as the highlight of my career,” Guiao furthered.
In addition, Guiao focus is now back on the NLEX Road Warriors, as he wishes to lead them to their first championship in the PBA.