PBA: Head coach LA Tenorio activated for Magnolia; Andrada, Abis also get green light

Magnolia head coach LA Tenorio is eligible to play in the Hotshots' Sunday game against TNT after his status was officially activated.

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) announced the change on Saturday, with Tenorio replacing Paul Lee, who was placed on the injury/reserve list.

Even before the official announcement, TNT head coach Chot Reyes said on Friday that he was already preparing for the possibility of Tenorio seeing action in Sunday’s matchup.

“That’s something na naisip ko right away noong pinanood ko ’yung last game nila,” Reyes said.

“There’s a different energy, calmness, and steadiness when he’s on the floor. He might not be as quick anymore or as athletic as a Jerom [Lastimosa], or as lethal as a Paul Lee. Iba ’yung presence niya.”

Aside from Tenorio, Magnolia has also activated recently crowned NCAA champion Yukien Andrada of San Beda University. Andrada was selected sixth overall in this year’s PBA Rookie Draft.

Meanwhile, Barangay Ginebra signed University of Perpetual Help System DALTA standout John Cedrick Abis, the 23rd overall pick in the same draft.

Barangay Ginebra will face TNT on Sunday.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News