Topex Robinson has been named the new head coach of De La Salle University’s men’s basketball team.
Robinson, 48, was formally introduced to the Green Archers on Thursday afternoon at the Razon Sports Complex.
“I’m so grateful and honored to be in this situation. I myself growing up was a fan of La Salle basketball. Never have I imagined that this dream will come into fruition. It’s an honor and a privilege,” Robinson told Tiebreaker Times.
“I played and coached against La Salle, being a part of La Salle is a dream come true for me.”
This will mark Robinson’s return to the collegiate ranks after spending the last two years in the Philippine Basketball Association with Phoenix Super LPG.
After retiring as a player back in 2011, Robinson was tasked to handle his alma mater San Sebastian College-Recoletos from NCAA Seasons 87 to 89.
He steered the school to a runner-up finish in Season 87 and a third-place finish in 89.
In NCAA Season 90, he went to Lyceum of the Philippines University as head coach and, later on, head of basketball operations for the entire system of the school.
With the Pirates, he finished second twice (Season 93 and 94).
During his time in the NCAA, he handled the likes of Calvin Abueva, Ian Sangalang, CJ Perez, and MJ Ayaay.
All in all, he compiled a 98-68 record in the NCAA.
Besides being an assistant coach in Alaska and a head coach in Phoenix, Robinson was also an assistant coach for Gilas Pilipinas during the first window of the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
He takes over from Derrick Pumaren, who steered the Green Archers to a Final Four appearance in UAAP Season 84. However, DLSU missed the semis boat in Season 85.
Robinson will now bring his ‘Love, Serve, and Care’ mantra to De La Salle University.
Part of La Salle’s initial shortlist were Robinson, Rajko Toroman, Nenad Vucinic, and Cholo Villanueva.
Those who applied were Louie Alas, Jeffrey Cariaso, and Luigi Trillo.
