PBA to approve Meralco entry; Ryan is new coach

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is expected to approve Manila Electric Company's (Meralco) entry as the newest member of the country's premier professional league when the board meets on Tuesday. PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios told GMANews.TV that Meralco, which will take over the old Sta. Lucia franchise, has already submitted documents regarding its participation. Asked whether a voting is needed to allow Meralco's entry, Barrios said it's not necessary. "I don’t think we still need to divide the house regarding this matter. If there would be queries, then they will be free to ask," said Barrios in a telephone interview. "But the board will take a look on all the documents submitted by the applying member." Once approved, Meralco will be the 10th team in the league, taking over Sta. Lucia's franchise. But Meralco’s entry will most likely be questioned whether its participation will be as sister team of Talk 'N Text or a separate company. Businessman/sportsman Manny V. Pangilinan has controlling shares on both Meralco and Talk 'N Text. "Whether Meralco will be a sister team of Talk 'N Text or will join as a separate company will also be discussed in the meeting," added Barrios. New world awaits 3-time champion coach Norman Black, Chot Reyes, Frankie Lim and even Rajko Toroman. These are some of the notable coaches under Pangilinan's stable. But Ryan Gregorio, a name from a rival club, was reportedly chosen among a short list of candidates to lead a squad out to relive its basketball glory. An unimpeachable source from the company disclosed that Gregorio is set to handle the squad for the next five years. The eloquent mentor is also expected to head the basketball operations and will also be delegated to hold a key position in the company where he will serve as one of its top executives who will be tasked to lead the group's sports development. "The good thing about the position of coach Ryan is that he won't just serve as a coach, but will also work as an employee. He will be given a guaranteed contract as coach while his managerial skills will also be tested," said the source. GMANews.TV tried to get Gregorio's side for confirmation but our calls were not answered. - JVP, Rey Joble, GMANews.TV