YENG Guiao is leaving NLEX in good hands.
The champion coach knows it's only a matter before the Road Warriors finally make it to a first ever PBA finals appearance, more so, bag a historic maiden championship.
The 63-year-old Guiao pointed out the pieces are already there, and it's only a matter of time before the franchise gets to join the league's pantheon of winners.
"Tingin ko ito na yung stage na yung piyesa ng team, camaraderie, chemistry, pag-absorb nila ng system, andiyan na, e," said Guiao.
"Kaunting breakthrough na lang, andiyan na."
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Guiao and NLEX ended a six-year partnership over the weekend in a move which both parties said was a mutual decision.
During that span, the former Pampanga vice governor and congressman turned NLEX into a consistent playoff contending team which twice advanced in the semifinals during the 2018 Philippine Cup and 2021 Governors' Cup, respectively.
He even felt the Road Warriors could have made it to the semis of the ongoing Philippine Cup, recalling the team was just a free throw short of pulling the rug from under Magnolia in their quarterfinals series.
But he also believes the process was a good learning experience for NLEX moving forward behind a core bannered by Kevin Alas, Calvin Oftana, Don Trollano, Justin Chua, Matt Nieto, and Kris Rosales.
"It's in a breakthrough position and I will be proud if this team is able to advance or play even better even without me," said Guiao, who also previously served as NLEX basketball operation head. "I will take pride in that."
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Guiao made special mention to team owner Manny V. Pangilinan, board of governor Rod Franco, team executive Ronald Dulatre, NLEX president and general manager Luigi Bautista, the NLEX Mancom, players, utility boys, coaching staff, and the Road Warriors fans for making his stay with the team memorable.
"Alam nila mahal ko sila," said the champion coach.
Guiao made the statement during his guesting in the weekly sports program Power&Play over Radyo-5. (RG)
