Chot Reyes stepped down as the head coach of Gilas Pilipinas on Saturday evening.
It was a graceful sendoff for the most polarizing head coach the national team has ever had as the Philippines triumphed over long-time tormentor China, 96-75.
However, it was still considered a ‘failed’ campaign for Gilas, as their aim was to either advance to the second round or secure an outright Olympic berth.
Unlike the resignation he submitted after the 31st Southeast Asian Games, this one was irrevocable.
“It is my decision. I didn’t apply for this job. I didn’t volunteer; I was given this mandate. I had already retired from this position,” said Reyes, who returned to the post after a four-year absence last year following Tab Baldwin’s removal from his position.
“It’s time for me to step aside for the good of the team and the good of the program.”
However, another major tournament is just three weeks away for Gilas. The 19th Asian Games will begin on September 23 in Hangzhou.
Reyes’ resignation has left the program in disarray.
“I have no idea. I think it’s time for somebody else. All of you are clamoring for some names, and maybe it’s time,” he said when asked if he had left any plans for the tournament.
Reyes wants no part in the selection process of his successor. After all, he does not want anything to do with whether that person succeeds or fails.
“Subject myself to this again? Maawa naman kayo sa akin. It’s just been brutal.
“You are part of it. It’s been brutal, never mind on me but for my family and loved ones. It has been brutal. I will never turn my back on serving my country, but there’s a point when I just have to think of my health and my family’s health,” he said.
“The future is very uncertain.”
