Altamirano accepts offer to coach RP U-16

National Basketball Training Center (NBTC) director Eric Altamirano has accepted the offer to handle the Nokia-Pilipinas U-16 basketball team competing in various international tournaments next year.

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) appointed the former two-time PBA champion coach as mentor of the team composed of 14-16 year olds (born in 1992) effective yesterday.

“Altamirano is the most logical choice being the program head of NBTC the training pool for the 14-16 year old Filipino basketball players,” said SBP executive director Noli Eala. “He was also favorably endorsed by SBP program director Rajko Toroman.”

At the same time, Eala announced the upcoming tryouts for the RP Nokia youth team on Jan. 2-9, 2009 at the PhilSports Arena. Aspirants may contact the SBP office through Love Viray at 706-2970 or 706-2969.

Eala also commended Franz Pumaren, coach of the Nokia-backed RP Youth U-18 team for steering the squad to first place in the Southeast Asian Basketball Association (SEABA) tournament and seventh place in the Asian championship after beating eventual tournament champion Iran.

“The first place finish in the SEABA last May and the seventh place finish in Iran has brought back interest and respect for the RP youth program among not only the Filipino youth but also the fans of Philippine basketball,” said Eala.

Joel Lopa of TAO Corp. likewise acknowledged Pumaren’s contribution and commended him for “the great job he did during his stint as head coach.”

In an earlier interview, Pumaren commented on the developments regarding the RP Youth program.

“I’ve already laid a strong foundation for a good coach to build upon. It is unfortunate that my present schedule forbids me from continuing on as head coach as it conflicts with not just my coaching at La Salle, but with my other commitments to the people of Quezon City whom I serve. But I would like to assure the next coach of the Nokia-Pilipinas U-16 team that he can count on my support for advice and tips on international competitions.”

Altamirano played for the San Beda College in the company of Benjie Paras, Ronnie Magsanoc and Franz’ younger brother Dindo before moving to the University of the Philippines (UP), where he won MVP honors while joining hands with Paras and Magsanoc to lead the Maroons to a UAAP title in 1986. He played for Alaska, Pepsi and Shell in the PBA after the UAAP before leading Purefoods to an All Filipino title in 1997 and Mobiline to the 1998 Centennial Cup crown. He served as one of the assistants to coach Jong Uichico to the 2002 Philippine team to the Busan Asian Games.