Amidst mounting speculation regarding the coaching future of Converge, Jacob Lao, the team manager of the FiberXers. dispelled rumors suggesting a potential replacement of Aldin Ayo with Ateneo de Manila University’s Tab Baldwin.
Social media platforms buzzed with speculation that Baldwin was being lined up to succeed Ayo once his contract concludes later this year.
However, Lao swiftly quashed these rumors, affirming his unwavering support for Ayo.
“Let me clarify once and for all: there is no truth to the rumors circulating about Coach Aldin Ayo’s departure from Converge and his replacement by Tab Baldwin. Coach Ayo is an integral part of our team, and we have full trust and confidence in him,” said Lao, also the president of Strong Group Athletics.
“As for the speculations linking Coach Baldwin to our team, they are purely baseless.”
With Converge facing a challenging season in the ongoing PBA Philippine Cup, having yet to secure a victory in five games, rumors of a coaching change only added to the pressure surrounding the FiberXers.
Lao further emphasized his respect for Ateneo and the MVP Group.
“I want to reiterate that we hold Ateneo de Manila University and the MVP Group in high regard. Our relationship with them is one of mutual respect and cooperation. I am forever grateful for the learnings I gained from Ateneo, and I cherish the values instilled in me during my time there,” expressed Lao.
“However, these rumors linking Coach Baldwin to Converge are unfounded. Our focus remains on supporting Coach Ayo and the team as we navigate through our challenges in the PBA Philippine Cup.”
Converge will next face Rain or Shine on Wednesday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
