Wish come true for RDO, joins TNT coaching staff
Ranidel De Ocampo got his post-playing career wish.
The veteran forward found himself reunited with former team TnT Katropa after he was tapped by the franchise to become part of its coaching staff.
Due to various injury, De Ocampo retired three months ago with Meralco.
But RDO was vocal enough to admit he'll consider pursuing a coaching career if an opportunity opens to him.
"Kung may gustong isali ako sa staff nila, puwede naming i-consider," he said last April.
The Katropa didn't lose enough time and brought back home their veteran leader who helped guide the franchise to six PBA championships during his stay with the team from 2008 to 2017.
"Coach Ranidel brings us a wealth of championship experience and basketball knowledge that will definitely help our team reach our aspirations for another championship," said team manager Gabby Cui in a statement.
While with the Katropa, RDO spent time playing for the franchise and Gilas Pilipinas.
During his stint with the national team, the country finished runner-up in the 2013 FIBA Asia Men's Championship and earned a berth in the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain, marking the first time the country punched a ticket to the world championship after a 36-year absence.
De Ocampo, 38, was later dealt by TnT to Meralco in a three-team trade three years ago, where he spent the final playing years of his career.
He was part of the Bolts' team that finished runner-up to Barangay Ginebra in the 2017 Governors Cup.
RDO was a nine-time All-Star, a threetime Mythical First team, two-tine Finals MVP, adjudged Best Player of the Conference (2014 Governors Cup), a Mythical Second Team, and member of All-Rookie team (2004-05).