Guru vs mentor in ADMU-DLSU rivalry game

MANILA, Philippines — Topex Robinson faces his old coaching guru in Louie Alas as reigning champion La Salle and Ateneo turn another page in their fabled rivalry in the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball today at the Mall of Asia Arena.

From their coaching team-ups in the pros, the two meet again at 6 p.m. for one of the country’s most popular and iconic collegiate matchups filled with different storylines and riveting dramas, especially in the aftermath of the tragedy that led to the Ateneo coaching change.

Tab Baldwin out, Alas in and Robinson is as ready as ever even if it means toppling one of his mentors back in the PBA.

“Coach Louie has been part of my growth as a coach as well. A lot of my learnings came from him,” said Robinson, Alas’ assistant aduring his tenure with Phoenix.

“It’s really gonna be a very exciting experience for me as a young coach. Learning from the way he really handles teams, especially in college, you can really see the personality of the team in coach Louie. It’s gonna be fun. Ateneo really looks good and has been playing a lot well. It’s gonna make us a better team.”

Both also worked as deputies for Alaska.