MANILA – Ilonggo Ronald Tubid is stepping into unfamiliar territory as he takes the reins of Terrafirma Dyip, embracing the immense responsibility of becoming a head coach in the PBA.
The former Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Kings defensive guard is now tasked with steering a franchise that has faced its share of challenges both on and off the court.
“Excited na ma-testing ‘yung ability to coach,” he shared during the the PBA Season 50 Draft Combine at the Ynares Sports Arena, visibly eager to prove himself in this new role.
The Dyip, who opted to push forward as a franchise after stalled negotiations for a potential sale involving Junnie Navarro and the Zamboanga Valientes, now turn to Tubid’s leadership to guide them into a fresh era.
The nine-time PBA champion isn’t a stranger to Terrafirma’s inner workings, having previously served as a team manager and later as an assistant coach under acting mentor Raymond Tiongco.
That hands-on experience, combined with lessons from his decorated playing career under the likes of Perry Ronquillo, Jong Uichico, and Leo Austria, gives him a foundation to build his own coaching style.
“Hindi lang team manager, naging assistant coach din ako. This time siguro sistema ko,” he explained. “How many coaches din naman na pinagdaanan ko-Coach Perry, Coach Leo, Coach Junel [Baculi]; sina Coach John [Cardel]. Lahat ‘yun, naging coaches ko.”
“Every coach na nadaanan ko may nakukuha akong lesson. Idadagdag pa namin sa sistema,” added the former University of the East Red Warriors defensive guard.
Tubid got his first major task as head coach done after the Dyip made 6-foot-10 center Shaun Geoffrey Chiu as their top-overall pick in the PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall in Pasay City.
Aside from Chiu, the Dyip has nine other selections in Ilonggo Franz Diaz, Shawn Umali, Orin Catacutan, Dolan Adlawan, Royce Alforque, JM Bravo, Claude Camit, Ira Battaller, and Tristan Medina./PN
