Ex-PBA player Ballesteros to replace Jarencio as UST coach?

MANILA, Philippines – Ernesto "Estong" Ballesteros, a vital cog in Santo Tomas' four-peat reign in the 90s, could be taking over the coaching chores at the Tigers soon.

This came after Pido Jarencio officially left UST Monday after forging a two-year contract with the Mikee Romero-owned Global Port franchise in the PBA eight years after taking over as coach.

Before informing UST officials he's leaving to accept the PBA job, Jarencio endorsed Ballesteros, his longtime assistant, as his successor.

"He told me this morning (yesterday) he endorsed me as UST coach," said Ballesteros in Filipino referring to Jarencio.

Ballesteros, however, said he is still awaiting word from UST top officials before he could officially take over.

"I'm just waiting what the (UST) priests will say if it’s really me succeeding him (Jarencio)," said Ballesteros.

The confirmation of Jarencio officially leaving the Tigers came during Monday morning's practice that was presided over by Ballesteros.

If appointed, Ballesteros will have his hands full matching, if not surpassing, Jarencio's feat of steering the Espana-based dribblers to a championship in 2006 and two finals appearances the last two seasons.

He will also handle the team that lost five players to graduation, including gunners Jeric Teng and Clark Bautista.

Cameroonian Karim Abdul, Kevin Ferrer, Aljon Mariano, Ed  Daquioag, Paolo Pe, Sheak Sheriff and Kim Lo will spearhead UST's campaign in the coming 77th UAAP season.

Louie Vigil, who is from UST's Team B, La Salle-Zobel hotshot Renz Subido and University of the East transferee are among the players that could be suiting up for UST next in place of Teng and Bautista.