New NLEX head coach Yeng Guiao talks to members of the media during practice at the USJ-R gym (CDN PHOTO/JAMES SAVELLON).
WITH a new head coach in tow, expect a different NLEX team when the Road Warriors see action in the three-day Recoletos Invitational Cup that starts today at the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) Coliseum.
NLEX head coach Yeng Guiao, who was acquired by the Road Warriors during the off season, led the team’s practice at the venue yesterday afternoon as it prepared for the tournament that also features PBA team Meralco Bolts, the Cebu Landmasters and local collegiate powerhouse University of the Visayas (UV).
Guiao, the former Rain or Shine head coach, said Cebuanos will see a faster NLEX team as he has introduced an up-tempo style of game that his players have already embraced.
“We hope it works for us,” said Guiao.
Veteran NLEX center Asi Taulava said the team is excited to try the new system of Guiao, who has won seven PBA titles overall, two with his last team the Elasto Painters.
“We’re not the slow-paced NLEX that we were the past two years,” he said. “Coach Yeng made us more of a run-and-gun team.”
The 43-year-old veteran said this tournament is part of the team’s preparation for next season, which starts late this month with the All-Filipino Conference.