LA Tenorio Joins Rare Club as Magnolia’s Playing Coach

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by Lou Reyes

Former Barangay Ginebra point guard and now Magnolia Hotshots playing coach LA Tenorio.
Former Barangay Ginebra point guard and now Magnolia Hotshots playing coach LA Tenorio. Photo: The Daily Chronicle.

In a twist that feels straight out of PBA history books, LA Tenorio has officially been listed not just as Magnolia’s new head coach, but also as part of the Hotshots’ player roster. 

Yes, you read that right: the veteran guard who made his name with Barangay Ginebra is now carrying the unique title of “playing coach.”

The announcement came with a wrinkle. While Tenorio is not expected to see the floor anytime soon, Magnolia secured his playing rights by placing him on the injured/reserve list. Under league rules, teams may carry 15 active players and one slot for injury reserves. By using that designation, the Hotshots essentially left the door cracked open for a potential on-court cameo by their new mentor.

Tenorio himself isn’t fanning the flames of a comeback—at least not yet. “From time to time, I still join practices,” the 41-year-old admitted. “You’ll never know. I’m part of the lineup. I’m on the injured list. So I have a chance. But right now, I’m focused on coaching.”

Still, just seeing his name on that roster has fans buzzing. After all, it’s been nearly three decades since Robert Jaworski famously wore both the jersey and the suit for Ginebra. To this day, Jaworski remains the gold standard for playing coaches in the league, and Tenorio is the first since then to be officially positioned in the same mold.

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

Magnolia faithful are already dreaming about the possibilities. Imagine Tenorio, “Ironman” of the PBA, known for his leadership and clutch shooting, checking into a game while also directing plays from the sidelines. The scenario feels almost cinematic.

But Tenorio is keeping his feet on the ground. He acknowledges the balancing act is anything but simple. “It’s a hard decision, siyempre. Coaching and playing at the same time, only one person really pulled that off—Coach Sonny,” he said, referencing Jaworski’s iconic run.

For now, Magnolia gets the best of both worlds: a tested leader steering the Hotshots from the bench and the insurance of a battle-tested veteran who could lace them up if absolutely needed. Whether or not Tenorio ever takes the floor, his presence alone signals a new era for Magnolia—one that blends respect for tradition with a bold twist for the future.