University of the East has yet to make a final decision, but it is strongly considering Josh Reyes as the next head coach of the Red Warriors.
Last Monday, five coaching candidates presented their programs to a panel that included school president Dr. Zosimo Battad.
The selection process was not just about building on what former head coach Jack Santiago left behind, but also about ending UE’s 15-year Final Four drought in men’s basketball.
According to multiple sources closely monitoring the situation, the candidates were Reyes, Chris Gavina, Ariel Vanguardia, and Boysie Zamar.
Notably, early favorite Eric Altamirano withdrew from consideration before the interviews to focus on his grassroots initiative, the National Basketball Training Center.
Following the deliberations, Reyes emerged as the most impressive candidate.
Now, discussions will focus on not only securing top-tier recruits but also ensuring a sustainable program for the long run.
Reyes has extensive experience at the youth level.
Despite serving as an assistant coach with TNT and Gilas Pilipinas Men since 2011, he was also part of Far Eastern University’s coaching staff from 2012 to 2016.
Additionally, he was the head coach of Gilas Boys from 2018 to 2023, leading the team to two FIBA World Cup appearances.
With a high-profile coach like Reyes in the mix, the ball is now in UE’s court to secure the budget and resources needed to support his vision for the program.
Fortunately, Reyes is among the coaches endorsed by the Phenom Championship Clinic.
Zamar will still continue with his role as consultant for the school’s athletics program.
