Nash Racela had a successful, thrilling return to the PBA.
The veteran bench tactician last coached in the pro ranks back in 2018, when he manned the sidelines for the TNT KaTropa.
But he made his way back to the league in November of last year after being hired to call the shots of the rebuilding Blackwater.
And the Elite made sure to give him a warm welcome back through a 96-89 win over NorthPort, 96-89, in their 2020 Philippine Cup opener Monday.
“It’s good to be back. Not just in the PBA, but also in the media room,” he quipped. “Hindi ko alam kung kailan ako makakabalik dito.
“But the last time I coached in the PBA was two years ago. So it’s a good feeling for myself,” added the former Far Eastern University mentor.
Racela admitted that he had no idea how his first game back would be, so he asked his team to help him out.
“I did not really know what to expect doon sa game. I remember before we left the dugout… My message to the whole team, especially the coaches, was to help me,” he said.
“I told them parang medyo nakalimutan ko na kung paano mag-coach, and the last time I did was two years ago, so of course I would need all the help that I can get from everyone.”
Fortunately for him, everyone — from the coaches down to the players — responded well, ultimately leading to the desirable result.
Don Trollano produced a double-double of 17 points and 10 rebounds. Roi Sumang made his presence felt as well with his own 17 markers.
Mac Belo, who earned Best Player of the Game honors, supplied 16 points, six boards, and two assists. Ed Daquioag chimed in 13 markers.
“Nagtulong-tulong naman kami. Not just the coaches, but the players. They made their suggestions, recommendations, and they were very honest in their assessment of themselves. Sasabihin nila kung kailangan nila ng sub,” Racela said.
“And that really helped us today.”
