Familiar faces from the PBA took the sidelines to help grow women’s basketball at the inaugural Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) opener.
PSP, mentored by head coach Terrence Romeo and assistant coaches CJ Perez, Arvin Tolentino, and Vic Manuel, showcased their potential despite falling short in a narrow 70-73 loss to the Imus Lady Magdalo.
The Lady Gymers features former UAAP Mythical Team member Sai Larrosa of UST and ex-Ateneo standouts Nic Cancio and Cara Buendia.
Leading the charge for the Lady Gymers was former NU Lady Bulldog Jeeuel Bartolo, who lit up the scoreboard with a game-high 18 points, including four three-pointers.
Assistant coach Trim Pante praised the team’s star-studded coaching staff, emphasizing the need for adjustments moving forward.
(C) WMPBL
“Syempre, unang una, solid ‘yung coaching staff namin. Kailangan pa namin ng adjustment since first game lang,” said Pante.
He highlighted how Romeo, Perez, Tolentino, and Manuel, all established PBA stars, have been instrumental in mentoring the newly formed PSP squad.
“‘Yung mga coaches na mga PBA player, laging nag-aadvice sa mga bata, at baka next game baka makuha na namin ‘yung panalo,” he added.
Postgame, the coaching staff reminded the Lady Gymers to stay positive and stick to their game plan as they prepare for their next match.
Balancing their dual roles as active PBA players and coaches in the WMPBL has required careful scheduling, with PSP practices often held at night to accommodate their tight calendars.
As women’s basketball continues its ascent in the Philippines, Romeo and his fellow PBA stars hope to make a lasting impact by guiding the next generation of talented female players.
