By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
Coach Topex Robinson will not be calling the shots for the Phoenix Super LPG franchise in the upcoming 2023 PBA Governor’s Cup.
After five long years mentoring the young team, the former NCAA tactician made a bold move by not renewing his contract that already expired last December 31, 2022.
Robinson was the team’s assistant coach for three years and spent his last 24 months as the team’s chief orchestrator after the departure of former head Louie Alas.
“I’m forever grateful to Boss Dennis Uy, Boss Raymond Zorilla, and Boss Paolo Bugia for helping me in achieving my dream of coaching in the PBA. It’s every coach’s dream to coach in the PBA,” said Robinson.
Robinson was impressive during his two-year stint under Phoenix as a head coach, tallying a total of 17-16 win-loss record while leading the team to numerous playoff appearances.
Despite the loss of former main gunner Matthew Wright who decided to play in the Japan B. League, Robinson still managed to mesh the team into a single unit and changed the way they played.
From a Wright-centered offensive team, Phoenix became one of the best passing squads in the PBA which also allowed the likes of Jason Perkins, Tyler Tio, and Encho Serrano to step out of their comfort zone and play like stars.
Robinson’s most outstanding year with the Phoenix was three years ago when he led the team until the semifinals of the 2020 PBA Philippine Cup.
Phoenix might have lost the series but Robinson and the entire team earned the respect of the stacked TNT Tropang Giga team led by Jayson Castro, Poy Erram, Bobby Ray Parks Jr., and Kelly Williams.
Taking over Robinson’s post is lead assistant coach Jamike Jarin who will be designated as the team’s interim head coach in the meantime.
“Thank you to Phoenix, to all the players who we were able to handle, and to all the coaches who helped me in this journey. I’m blessed to have worked with all of you,” added Robinson.
As of now, Robinson is yet to announce whether he will move to another PBA franchise or go back into the collegiate ranks.
