LA Tenorio Takes the Helm as Magnolia Hotshots’ New Head Coach

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by Lou Reyes

Former Ginebra guard LA Tenorio. Photo: SBP.

After weeks of speculation about his future on the court, LA Tenorio is officially stepping into a new role — this time from the sidelines.

Magnolia has named the veteran guard as its new head coach, marking a major transition for the 41-year-old, who had just hinted at retirement following Barangay Ginebra’s recent exit in the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals.

The announcement came on Monday through San Miguel Corporation sports director Alfrancis Chua, who shared that discussions with Tenorio had already been in motion prior to his coaching debut with the Gilas Youth squad.

Chua revealed that the idea had been floating around since Tenorio led the Philippine U16 national team to an unbeaten run in the FIBA U16 Asia Cup SEABA qualifiers. The impressive campaign caught the attention of top brass, further fueling confidence in Tenorio’s ability to take on a bigger coaching role.

“We were joking about it at first,” Chua said, recalling a lighthearted moment when he asked Tenorio if he was ready to take on the job after winning gold with the youth team. “But everyone knows LA is smart and has always had a strong presence as a leader. We’re not expecting perfection, but there’s no doubt he has what it takes.”

LA Tenorio (2nd from left) stands beside SMC sports director Al Francis Chua (leftmost) while singing the national anthem. Photo: SBP.

Tenorio’s transition to coaching comes after an illustrious 18-season career in the PBA. Drafted fourth overall by San Miguel in 2006, he went on to build a legacy with Ginebra, winning eight championships and earning four Finals MVP honors. His streak of 744 consecutive games also earned him the nickname “Iron Man” of the league.

Chua shared that Tenorio was thrilled when he got the call confirming his new position with the Hotshots.

Tenorio during his playing days with Ginebra. Photo: PBA Images.

As for Chito Victolero, who previously coached Magnolia, Chua said the decision on his role moving forward will now rest with Tenorio.

Taking on his first PBA head coaching gig, Tenorio will bring his wealth of experience and on-court leadership into a new chapter with one of the league’s most storied franchises.

With his move to Magnolia now official, Tenorio trades his jersey for a clipboard—ready to guide a new generation of players from the bench.