Alas: I have to give up RP team stint to coach Mobiline

Louie Alas said he is likely to resign from the national team if the Manila Metrostars release him to Mobiline because of the conflict of schedule in the PBA and the RP team's forthcoming stint in the Southeast Asia Basketball Association (SEABA) tournament in Jakarta in June.

Alas claimed he would like to handle both jobs, but realizing the fact that he can't have both, the former Adamson Falcon said he may yield the RP team coaching rein and concentrate on his task with the Phone Pals.

"It would be a tough decision but since I have served the national team for three years, I think it's okay if I grab an opportunity to coach in the PBA. It's every coach's dream to have a stint in the PBA," said Alas.

Alas is tasked to handle the national team in its title defense in the SEABA championship. He has yet to form the team but he is eyeing the services of Kerby Raymundo, MBA players Romel Adducul, Gilbert Demape, Joel Co, Jun Longalong, Biboy Simon, Chris Calaguio and Omanzie Rodriguez, and PBL stalwarts Jojo Manalo, Ernesto Billones and Enrico Villanueva.

Alas has been calling the shots for the RP team since 1997, steering the Nationals to the SEABA crown thrice and the SEA Games gold medal once-in Brunei last year.

"Nakapagsilbi na siguro ako sa bayan at pwede na akong mag-PBA," said Alas.

However, the youthful coach, who also piloted the Letran Knights to the NCAA crown and the Metrostars to the MBA title in a successful campaign last year, doubts if his former MBA club will release him to Mobiline.

Alas tendered a resignation letter to the ballclub following a conflict with team management early this year. However, the team top honchos didn't accept his resignation and instead elevated him to team consultant. Alas' contract with Manila won't expire until next year.

Mobiline tapped Alas to handle the team after it sacked coach Eric Altamirano and his staff following the Phone Pals' dismal showing in the PBA All Filipino Cup despite having a formidable lineup.

Alas vowed to transform Mobiline into a running team if he gets the job.

"Ang lakas sa rebound ng team, pero hindi tumatakbo. I will maximize the potential of the team if ever I get the job," said Alas. -