Coach Raymond Aguilar, coming soon? That might be a possibility down the line, as the seldom-used but crowd-favorite Ginebra veteran is open to exploring coaching once his playing career ends.
At 38 years old, Ginebra veteran Raymond Aguilar’s playing days are inching closer to their twilight and the crowd-favorite player is starting to see and learn the game from a new vantage point.
“‘Nagpe-prepare na rin tayo for the future,” Aguilar said about possibly entering the coaching world after his PBA playing career.
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The seven-time champion recently attended 'The Champions Class' coaching clinic held at The Bellevue Manila in Muntinlupa City.
And it seems Aguilar might be laying the groundwork for life after basketball — a new chapter could involve calling plays instead of executing them.
“Nakikita ko ‘yung game in a different level kasi mostly nakaupo ako. Kaya medyo mas naaappreciate ko ‘yung game,” he explained.
While the transition from player to coach is nothing new in basketball, Aguilar’s case is unique.
Since being traded to Ginebra in 2017 in a deal with Blackwater, Aguilar has played sparingly — logging limited minutes but has won seven championships with the team and growing fan admiration along the way.
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“Pag nasa bench ka, mas nakikita mo ‘yung game ng mas malinaw. Mas nababasa mo yung techniques, tactics. So may advantages at disadvantages rin naman. Pero I’m happy sa role ko,” he insisted.
That role might soon translate from playing ball to calling the shots from the sidelines.
“Iba kasi ang point-of-view ng coach na teaching basketball sa teaching how to coach,” Aguilar explained. “So I want to see both views na rin.”
For now, he and the Gin Kings remain deeply engaged in the Philippine Cup.
Currently holding a 7-3 record, Ginebra is tied for third place with the Magnolia Hotshots in the team standings and is in control of its destiny for a twice-to-beat edge heading into the playoffs.
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They will close out their elimination round campaign on Father’s Day, June 15, against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters at the Ynares Center, Antipolo.
(With reports from Gillian Trinidad)