By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Letran Knights and savvy hoops tactician Bonnie Tan mutually agreed to part ways heading into the upcoming NCAA men’s basketball tournament season.
Tan’s departure was confirmed last April 23, 2023, ending his legendary head coaching career with the Knights after leading them to a three-peat championship.
Tan disclosed that there were no ill feelings during his decision-making and will handle tougher duties in the PBA when he was appointed as the team’s head coach in the next conference.
“I’m grateful for the opportunities that Letran has afforded me. I’m deeply appreciative of how the community has welcomed me since I came on board and being considered as an honorary Letranite will always be one of the biggest achievements I could ever receive,” Tan said.
Tan first blossomed with Letran after steering them to an NCAA championship title way back in Season 85 against the stacked San Beda Red Lions team.
After that season, Tan continued with his winning ways and overcame adversity in Seasons 97 and 98 that capped off his stellar three-peat run with the Knights.
Among the players that Tan helped to become successful in the collegiate ranks were Rhenz Abando, Brent Paraiso, and Louie Sangalang.
Tan will be leaving the Letran College men’s program with an impressive 44-13 win-loss record while clinching three NCAA Coach of the Year awards.
“As I close this chapter, I cherish all of those who believed in what we could do for the Knights, from boss Ramon S. Ang and sports director Alfrancis Chua of San Miguel Corp. to Letran Rector Fr. Clarence Victor C. Marquez, OP, Vice President for Academic Affairs Assoc. Prof. Cristina M. Castro-Cabral, Ph.D, and athletic director Fr. Victor Calvo, OP,” Tan added.
Replacing Tan as Letran’s newest chief tactician is coach Rensy Bajar who is already present with the team during their three-peat.
The announcement was already made last April 24, 2023, which Tan also approved, sharing that the talented coach will help Letran keep their winning tradition in the following NCAA seasons to come.
