Coach Jarin signs 3-year extension
PHOENIX Super LPG signed head coach Jamike Jarin to a fresh threeyear deal.
The new pact comes on the heels of the Fuel Masters’ semifinal stint in the recent PBA Commissioner’s Cup where the team eventually bowed to the Magnolia Hotshots.
The Final Four appearance marked the franchise’s first since the 2020 season when the team was still under coach Louie Alas.
“Thankful for the trust they have given me,” Jarin told The Manila Times, in expressing his gratitude to Phoenix team owner Dennis Uy, Fuel Masters governor Atty. Raul Zorilla and team manager Paolo Bugia.
“I will continue to work hard to continue our fairytale story.”
The Fuel Masters though have struggled during their first four games in the ongoing Philippine Cup, limping to a 1-3 record.
Jarin admitted the slow start can be attributed to the injuries sustained by young but dynamic playmaker Tyler Tio (ankle), Jason Perkins (concussion) and backup guard Raul Soyud (hamstring).
“With the team’s struggles, it’s a big impact that our starting point guard is out, actually three starters — Tyler Perk and Raul,” said Jarin.
“So we need to really play harder in the coming games. After this long break, hopefully our injured players will be back to help us out.”
Still, Jarin has been making the most of his remaining players with rookies Ken Tuffin and Ricci Rivero, while veteran playmaker RR Garcia put together his best effort of 20 points, 10 assists along with six rebounds in leading Phoenix to its first win in the conference via a 94-78 triumph over Terrafirma last week.
And the good news is Perkins will be back come Easter Sunday when the tournament resumes and Phoenix squaring off with powerhouse San Miguel Beer.
Bugia, meanwhile, believes Jarin’s fresh deal with the team was a tribute to the Filipino coach’s ability to navigate the team through the various challenges this season.
“He’s been doing a great job in keeping the guys together through up and down times,” Bugia said.
“What is equally important with the X and Os is that the team believes in the system and in themselves and that’s what keeps them competitive. We hope coach continues to make winners out of them in the coming years so we can achieve more, together.”