After nine years, Norman Black will no longer be calling the shots for Meralco.
The Bolts have decided to promote Luigi Trillo as head coach while Black will be working on a backend role as team consultant.
Black took over from Ryan Gregorio back in 2014, leading the Bolts to four Finals appearance.
“I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the Meralco management and the MVP group for supporting myself and the Bolts,” Black said. “In addition, I wish to thank the players and my coaching staff for their hard work and positive attitudes in their efforts to make the team successful over the years.
“I now look forward to helping the team in my capacity as team consultant in our continued quest to bring a championship to the Meralco franchise.”
Team manager Paolo Trillo added, “We thank Coach Norman for his unwavering commitment and the indelible mark he has left on the organization. We are also grateful to have Coach Nenad and Coach Luigi taking on new roles in leading the Bolts.”
Now, Paolo’s brother Luigi takes over for Black.
After resigning from Alaska in 2014, Luigi began working as an assistant for Black.
The one-time PBA champion head coach even coached the Bolts a few times when Black was away, including a five games in the 2022 Philippine Cup that saw him go 4-1.
Also retained was Nenad Vucivic, who will be the active consultant of the Bolts.
