Bates eyed as Patriots skills coach

MANILA, Philippines - Billy Ray Bates may well hook up as skills coach of the Philippine Patriots in the Asean Basketball League (ABL).

Patriots co-owner Mikee Romero told The STAR team manager Erick Arejola is now talking with the sensational PBA import for a possible deal.

“He’s still the Black Superman,” said Romero, admitting he’s a big fan of the man enshrined to the PBA Hall of Fame with six others during the inaugurals of the 37th PBA season at the Smart Araneta Coliseum last Sunday.

Bates didn’t rush home as he’s looking for job opportunities in the country, hoping in particular to be a coach like fellow former PBA imports Norman Black and Bobby Parks.

If ever, Bates will join Parks in the ABL roster with the latter to call the shots for ABL expansion team San Miguel Beer.

The Patriots, champions of ABL Season 1, are still in talks with coach Louie Alas for a new contract.

The PBA, Bates’ host since Sept. 30, has turned him over to female player agent Sheryl Reyes.

On her Twitter account, Reyes said Bates is to sign his contract as skills coach today.

According to the PBA’s Rhose Montreal, Bates has also got in touch with Grosby Shoes people who are planning to launch “Black Superman Snickers.”

Apparently, Bates has no more job to get back to in the US. Before flying to Manila, he worked in a recycling company.

During the PBA inaugurals, Bates expressed his desire to work in the country.