Gallent appointed as Llamados' new coach

(Updated 11:59 p.m.) Jorge Gallent, a multi-titled coach in the Philippine Basketball League, is bringing his winning ways in the big league -- the Philippine Basketball Association. Gallent, who just joined the Derby Ace Llamados middle of the 2008-2009 season, has been appointed as the new head coach of this storied franchise replacing three-time PBA champion coach Ryan Gregorio. Gregorio has moved to Meralco where he will be working as its bench tactician and head of its basketball operations for the next five years. Gallent confirmed his new coaching appointment to GMANews.TV. “I was informed Monday afternoon by Mr. Butch Alejo. He told me he met with Mr. Ramon Ang and that they’ve agreed to name me as the new head coach of B-Meg Derby Ace," said Gallent in a telephone interview. “Everything changed in just a day. We decided to go back from Petron to B-Meg Derby Ace and they decided to name me as coach of the team. In all, it was really a blessed month for all of us with James (Yap) and Rico (Maierhofer) winning the MVP and Rookie of the Year," added Gallent. Gallent is no stranger to winning – both as a player and as coach. He won seven championships as a player with the Stag Pale Pilsen/Tanduay Rhum in the PBL under coach Alfrancis Chua. As a coach, he won six titles with the Harbour Centre squad owned by businessman/sportsman Mikee Romero. The new mentor is hoping to bring his winning attitude with B-Meg Derby Ace. “That’s great," said Chua, hours after learning his former ward was named the new coach of the old Purefoods franchise. “I think he can do the job. I wish him good luck." Gallent said only Koy Banal and Dayong Mendoza are presently in the coaching staff. He is also hoping former defensive ace Rey Evangelista, who is currently spending his vacation in his hometown Ormoc, will join them and not go elsewhere. "I was fortunate that I was given the opportunity to work as an assistant coach first. It gives me the feel of the PBA's style of coaching. At least now, I won't feel like a stranger," added Gallent. The newly-appointed bench tactician added he will make a request to the management to have seven of his players with expiring contract be retained. “We need to have an intact lineup. I believe the rookie cast is shallow in terms of talent. We might not be able to get a good pick as we will be selecting No.9 in the Rookie Draft," said Gallent, a popular fixture among his players. Former Harbour Centre and now Philippine Patriots team manager Erick Arejola shared his views why Gallent has kept a “good bonding" with his players that translated into team success. “He treated his players as his buddies, but they know their limitations. That’s why, coach George is very popular among his players. I won’t be surprised if he continue to do that with Derby Ace," said Arejola. - GMANews.TV