New Phoenix head coach Charles Tiu to continue mentoring Benilde

MANILA, Philippines – New Phoenix head coach Charles Tiu said that he will continue to mentor the College of St. Benilde Blazers in the NCAA as he hammers out technicalities in terms of eligibility. 

“Truly excited and humbled to be joining the Phoenix Fuel Masters, but not leaving Benilde at all,” Tiu posted on X on Tuesday, January 20.  

“I repeat, there is no Benilde exit. I intend to coach both teams, and whatever ‘title/position’ is irrelevant to me,” he added. 

Tiu told Rappler that Phoenix team governor Raymond Zorilla offered him the role, which he accepted on Monday, January 19.

Benilde management gave its go signal, paving the way for his signing with the Fuel Masters.

Tiu led Benilde to its most successful stretch since the turn of the century, making four consecutive playoff appearances, including two runner-up finishes.

Prior to accepting the role as Phoenix head coach, Tiu served as an assistant coach for the Converge FiberXers alongside mentor Rajko Toroman and interim head coach Franco Atienza. 

The 37-year-old also served as head coach of Strong Group Athletics in various international tournaments such as the Dubai International Basketball Championship and the William Jones Cup. 

Tiu — the younger brother of former UAAP star and former Rain or Shine guard Chris — is set to meet with the team later this week. 

“To be honest, it’s still tough for me to judge. I haven’t seen the team or met them yet even. I come in with a clean slate for everyone,” said Tiu, who will have TY Tang, Paolo Layug, Jon Jacinto, and Paolo Dizon as assistants.

“I like that we have some size in the forward spot, obviously like most of the teams we don’t have a true center but we will make do with the pieces we have and try to improve as a team.”

Tiu replaces former interim head coach Willy Wilson and consultant Jamike Jarin, who were let go after just one PBA conference following a 3-8 record. 

Phoenix is seeking to make the playoffs for the first time since the 2023-2024 Commissioner’s Cup, where it lost in the semifinals to the Magnolia Hotshots. – Rappler.com