by Kristel Satumbaga
Jose Rizal University formally announced yesterday the appointment of Louie Gonzalez as the new coach of its men’s basketball team starting this year’s NCAA basketball season.
Gonzalez will replace former PBA pro Vergel Meneses, who has been at the squad’s coaching helm since 2009 until his resignation last year due to his intention to run for public office.
Known for his involvement in grassroots development of the sport in the country, Gonzalez has over two decades of top level coaching in the premier collegiate leagues. He mentored La Salle in last year’s UAAP season and was part of Aldin Ayo’s coaching staff when the latter won championships with Letran in the NCAA and La Salle in the UAAP.
Eddie Laure, Eric Dela Cuesta, Nixon Ramos and Vic Lazaro, who is coach of JRU’s juniors basketball team, will comprise Gonzalez’s coaching staff. Glen Capacio will serve as an active consultant.
The JRU Bombers will see action in the FilOil tournament next month as part of their preseason preparation for the NCAA.
The team hopes to eclipse its last-place finish last season, where it managed to win only three games out of 18 matches.
