by Lou Reyes
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| Justin Brownlee (right) and LA Tenorio. Photo: PBA Images. |
Justin Brownlee is still processing the surprising shift of longtime teammate and close friend LA Tenorio—this time, not as a player but as the newly appointed head coach of Ginebra’s fiercest rival, the Magnolia Hotshots.
The Barangay Ginebra import, who has battled in countless Manila Clasico matchups since arriving in the Philippines in 2016, admitted that seeing Tenorio on the opposing bench will take some getting used to.
“I’m really curious how the next Clasico will feel,” Brownlee said. “Seeing LA wearing a different color and calling the shots—it’s going to be strange.”
BARANGAY Ginebra resident import Justin Brownlee was surprised to hear the news that LA Tenorio has been appointed head coach of Magnolia early this was but said he is confident that his long-time teammate will flourish and succeed in his new career. https://t.co/vqPZnd58DU
— The Manila Times (@TheManilaTimes) July 31, 2025
The announcement of Tenorio’s coaching move caught fans and players off guard, especially after Magnolia parted ways with Chito Victolero following eight seasons and just one championship. SMC sports director Alfrancis Chua later confirmed the news, which quickly eclipsed even Gilas Pilipinas' recent exhibition game in the headlines.
Brownlee, who has won six PBA titles—all with Tenorio by his side—was candid about his reaction.
“I was honestly shocked when I heard it. I didn’t expect it at all,” the 37-year-old said. “He’s been more than a teammate to me—he’s like my second coach on the floor.”
While the news stirred mixed emotions, Brownlee emphasized his pride in Tenorio’s next chapter.
“LA’s been coaching in spirit for as long as I’ve been here. He’s always had that leadership. It’s bittersweet, but I’m very happy for him,” he said.
The natural court general, often called the “Gineral,” has long been known for guiding younger players and leading by example. Brownlee believes those qualities will serve Tenorio well in his transition to coaching—and maybe even as a player-coach.
“We all saw what he did recently in the playoffs—he can still play. Whether he just coaches or does both, I think he’ll succeed,” Brownlee said, referring to Tenorio’s clutch performance in the Philippine Cup semifinals.
“If anyone can manage both roles, it’s LA. He’s been doing it informally for years—giving advice, reading the game, helping teammates grow. I’ve learned a lot from him myself.”
As the Manila Clasico rivalry takes on a new twist, one thing’s certain: Justin Brownlee will be cheering for his former captain—even from across the court.