Aquino steps down as NU coach
A NEW era will usher the highly-successful National University women’s basketball program after Pat Aquino yesterday announced that he is leaving as head coach.
Aquino steered the Lady Bulldogs to one of the most untouchable records in UAAP sports, registering a 96-0 record spanning from 2014-19.
“I am officially stepping down as head coach of the NU Women’s Basketball team. After six straight years of being a champion, I know that we were able to sustain a winning culture,” said Aquino in Hanoi, Vietnam after the Gilas women secured its second consecutive Southeast Asian Games gold medal .
“I thank NU and the management Mr Herbert Sy and our major supporter Dioceldo Sy for believing in me since day one. Our top team backers fully support my decision and will still help whoever will come to me to continue what we started,” he added.
Among the products of the Lady Bulldogs program are Jack Danielle Animam, Afril Bernardino, Monique del Carmen and Camille Clarin, who all suited up for the national team.
Aquino’s long-time assistant Aris Dimaunahan will take over at the helm for the Lady Bulldogs, as the team is preparing for the return of women’s basketball action in UAAP Season 85 later this year.
NU has yet to issue a formal statement regarding Aquino’s departure.
Prioritizing and focus his role as the women’s basketball program director in SBP is what keeping Aquino busy as of late, as the Philippines is preparing for the U16 U18 program, 3×3 and 5×5 tournaments in the coming months. By Theodore Jurado
