Topex Robinson is now embarking on a new journey as head coach of Phoenix LPG.
And in this new battle, the 45-year-old mentor enlisted a soldier he trusts, tapping Rich Alvarez as assistant coach.
During the late 2000s — 2006 to 2008 to be exact — both Robinson and Alvarez went to numerous wars together in Red Bull.
Though unable to win a championship together, their countless battles led to Robinson giving the head coach of MPBL club Gen San a call.
“We’ve gone way back because of our Red Bull days. He’s also into coaching already with Gen San. So I think he is set on coaching na,” Robinson told Tiebreaker Times.
Current Phoenix team manager Paolo Bugia was also on that Barako Bull squad.
And when Robinson pitched this to Bugia, he did not bat an eye, immediately agreeing. After all, they remain connected by the bond Red Bull head coach Yeng Guiao formed among them.
“Sabi ko nga nung nag-usap kami ni Manager Bugs, why not bring in Rich? ‘Yung experience namin sa Red Bull is solid. ‘Pag naging part ka kasi ng team ni Coach Yeng — me, Rich, Rico [Villanueva], and Junthy [Valenzuela] — you build a rock-solid friendship,” said Robinson.
“Now in this new journey, you want someone who you have been to battle with. He fits the billing perfectly.”
With the MPBL uncertain, it remains unknown whether Alvarez will return to the Warriors as he has fully committed to the Fuel Masters.
