SPORTS
Advocates Philippines
Jimmy Alapag Returns Home, Takes Over As NLEX Head Coach
Photo credit: PBA
A new chapter begins for NLEX as PBA legend Jimmy Alapag officially returns to Philippine basketball, this time as the Road Warriors' new head coach ahead of the upcoming Governors' Cup.
The 48-year-old basketball icon has reunited with the MVP Group of Companies after spending the last six years in the United States, where he pursued a coaching career in the NBA. His appointment signals a fresh start for the NLEX franchise as it looks to bounce back under new leadership.
Alapag was formally welcomed back by PLDT Chairman and CEO Manny V. Pangilinan during the signing ceremony, which was also attended by NLEX President Luis Renon and team governor Ronald Dulatre. He takes over the coaching position previously held by Jong Uichico.
After leaving the Philippines in 2020 with his family, Alapag worked his way into the NBA coaching ranks. He first joined the Sacramento Kings organization as part of the coaching staff of the Stockton Kings during the NBA Summer League before earning a promotion in 2023 as the Kings' player development coach. He remained in that role until the conclusion of the recently completed NBA season.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards in PBA history, Alapag spent his entire professional playing career under the MVP umbrella. Drafted 10th overall by TNT in 2003, he went on to capture six PBA championships and was named the league's Most Valuable Player in 2011.
His decorated résumé also includes a Rookie of the Year award, a Best Player of the Conference honor, two Finals MVP trophies, three First Mythical Team selections, and 11 All-Star appearances. His achievements earned him a place among the PBA's 50 Greatest Players.
Beyond the professional league, Alapag became one of the faces of Gilas Pilipinas, serving as longtime team captain. He helped steer the national team to back-to-back silver medal finishes in the FIBA Asia Championship in 2013 and 2015, while also winning gold medals at the Southeast Asian Games in 2015 and 2017.
Following his retirement as a player, Alapag transitioned into coaching and led Alab Pilipinas to the 2017 ASEAN Basketball League championship. He also gained coaching experience with Meralco and San Miguel before pursuing opportunities in the NBA.
Now back on Philippine soil, Alapag faces a new challenge—guiding NLEX toward a turnaround and hoping to bring the winning culture that defined his playing and coaching career to the Road Warriors.
The 48-year-old basketball icon has reunited with the MVP Group of Companies after spending the last six years in the United States, where he pursued a coaching career in the NBA. His appointment signals a fresh start for the NLEX franchise as it looks to bounce back under new leadership.
Alapag was formally welcomed back by PLDT Chairman and CEO Manny V. Pangilinan during the signing ceremony, which was also attended by NLEX President Luis Renon and team governor Ronald Dulatre. He takes over the coaching position previously held by Jong Uichico.
After leaving the Philippines in 2020 with his family, Alapag worked his way into the NBA coaching ranks. He first joined the Sacramento Kings organization as part of the coaching staff of the Stockton Kings during the NBA Summer League before earning a promotion in 2023 as the Kings' player development coach. He remained in that role until the conclusion of the recently completed NBA season.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards in PBA history, Alapag spent his entire professional playing career under the MVP umbrella. Drafted 10th overall by TNT in 2003, he went on to capture six PBA championships and was named the league's Most Valuable Player in 2011.
His decorated résumé also includes a Rookie of the Year award, a Best Player of the Conference honor, two Finals MVP trophies, three First Mythical Team selections, and 11 All-Star appearances. His achievements earned him a place among the PBA's 50 Greatest Players.
Beyond the professional league, Alapag became one of the faces of Gilas Pilipinas, serving as longtime team captain. He helped steer the national team to back-to-back silver medal finishes in the FIBA Asia Championship in 2013 and 2015, while also winning gold medals at the Southeast Asian Games in 2015 and 2017.
Following his retirement as a player, Alapag transitioned into coaching and led Alab Pilipinas to the 2017 ASEAN Basketball League championship. He also gained coaching experience with Meralco and San Miguel before pursuing opportunities in the NBA.
Now back on Philippine soil, Alapag faces a new challenge—guiding NLEX toward a turnaround and hoping to bring the winning culture that defined his playing and coaching career to the Road Warriors.
Jun 30, 2026
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