Patrick Aquino open to take over as UP coach, even if he has to give up NU dynasty

"Sana nga."

This was how decorated mentor Patrick Aquino put into words his hopes of emerging as the next head coach of the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons following the resignation of Bo Perasol.

A source told GMA News Online that Aquino is in a strong position to be named Perasol's successor, with a few names like Goldwyn Monteverde, Poch Juinio, and Mo Gingerich also in consideration.

And Aquino, who has long been a fixture in the women's basketball circuit, said that he is open to lead the rebirth of the UP men's basketball team in the UAAP.

"Yes [I am open to be the next coach of UP]," he told GMA News Online in a message Sunday.

According to Aquino, though, taking the UP post would mean having to give up his duties as head coach of the National University women's basketball program, which he led to six straight UAAP titles.

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The multi-titled mentor bared that he might be able to retain his post as the coach of the Philippine national women's basketball team. Aquino steered the Gilas women's team to twin gold medals in the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, winning both the 5-on-5 and 3x3 competitions. 

"National team [is] okay but I have to give up NU," he added.

Aquino doesn't anticipate he'll have much trouble transitioning to men's basketball as he has plenty of coaching experience in that field as well, both in the semi-pro leagues and as an assistant coach in the PBA.

"I coached na some semi pro and I have been with Blackwater."

—JMB, GMA News