Jimmy Alapag talks about teaching and learning as a coach in the NBA

“It’s a blessing everyday.”

A few years into his unprecedented NBA coaching journey, Sacramento Kings player development coach Jimmy Alapag is still relishing the opportunity to coach in basketball’s biggest stage.

After a storied career in the Philippines, both in the pros and the national team, Alapag brought his talents to the United States where he eventually landed a spot as part of G League team Stockton Kings' coaching staff in 2021.

Two years after, Alapag was named as player development coach of the Sacramento Kings.

Now on his second year with the team, Alapag said he is now emphasizing on building and cultivating relationships with the players and coaches — an element that proves to be crucial in his role as player development coach.

“The relationships that you build with the players that you work with is a huge component to helping them be successful. I think the connection goes beyond basketball because you’re with the guys all the time.” Alapag told GMA Integrated News Thursday on the sidelines of the Kings' game against the Houston Rockets. 

Alapag is no stranger with this type of responsibility.

His mentorship chops have been in full display since his days as professional and Gilas Pilipinas player. 

As coach, he has been impressive in his stints so far, winning a championship in his first year with Alab Pilipinas and being part of a Summer League-winning coaching staff in 2021.

Lessons and tips

Since joining the coaching staff, he has worked with young players such as Davion Mitchell and Keon Ellis.

Last season, Mitchell enjoyed a breakthrough year while Ellis has introduced himself as a hard-nosed two-way player in the league. Both players have flourished under the guidance of Alapag.

When asked how players can fully develop their potential, Alapag simply cited an advice from his former colleague and Stockton Kings head coach Bobby Jackson.

“I’ll share something that coach Bobby Jackson used to tell all of our G League guys. It not only applies to the G League but also applies here in the NBA. He used to always encourage our guys to build a routine for yourself," Alapag said.

“The work never stops. You’re constantly trying to improve. You’re constantly trying to find an edge."

Not only is Alapag giving tips to his players, whether in the G League or in the NBA.

He himself has also learned and absorbed the philosophies of three different coaches: Jackson, Mike Brown, and Doug Christie.

Despite differences in approach, Alapag singled out something these coaches have in common, which for him is his biggest learning so far.

“The attention to detail. The coaches that I’ve had a chance to work with: Coach Brown, Coach Doug, Coach Bobby Jackson. Their attention to detail is incredible. And it’s something I want to take with me as I continue with my coaching journey,” he said.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News