Manny inspires new kids of hoops

MANILA, Philippines - Veteran PBA coaches are one in saying Manny Pacquiao is an addition to their circle, convinced the boxing sensation will be an inspiration to everyone in the pro league with his dedication, discipline, positive mental attitude and competitive spirit.

From the longest tenured PBA coach to the newest member of the elite group, they all welcomed Pacquiao’s entry to the world of coaching via PBA expansion franchise Columbian Autocar Corp. or Team Kia.

No one underestimated Pacquiao’s capability to train and do the actual coaching in the game.

“I welcome Manny Pacquiao into the PBA coaching fraternity. He is a worthy colleague in the House of Representatives and will also prove himself as a worthy colleague in the PBA,” said Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao, a congressman like Pacquiao.

“There will always be a learning curve in any new venture anyone embarks in, but I know being a competitor, he will quickly make the transition. Good luck to him and Kia Motors,” Guiao also said.

With his competitive fire, the other veteran PBA bench tacticians believed Pacquiao would adapt to the job of breaking down the game and drawing basketball’s X’s and O’s for his team.

And they have no doubt Pacquiao can inspire and can lead.

“He’s a proven leader and I’m sure he will be an inspiration for his players,” said Ginebra’s Jeff Cariaso.

“He has done and accomplished feats that are beyond people’s imagination or even beyond human comprehension. But he achieves it and no other human being did. The fundamentals in any sport are the same: discipline, hard work and positive mental attitude. If Manny can translate these from boxing to basketball and pass it on to his players, then that can be a lethal combination,” said Meralco’s Ryan Gregorio.

“He will be an interesting addition. Knowing his work ethic, it would be interesting to see him apply it in an entirely new field. I’m positive that God has a good purpose for him in this new challenge. We welcome him wholeheartedly,” said San Miguel Beer’s Biboy Ravanes

 To be a crowd draw is a given.

“I’m sure everyone will look forward to having the best boxer in the world to be part of the PBA. It will be good for the league and for the fans,” said Globalport’s Pido Jarencio.

PBA commissioner Chito Salud himself welcomed Pacquiao’s entry into basketball, saying he “embodies the highest standard of excellence and sportsmanship.”

“Of course, there’s the ‘wow’ factor, there’s the point of interest, the pulling power of Manny Pacquiao, but I want to emphasize that Manny is the embodiment of what the PBA is striving to stand for,” said Salud. “And what is that? The highest degree of excellence and sportsmanship with regard to fan and public interest.”