Louie Gonzalez named DLSU Archers coach

MANILA, Philippines — A day after Aldin Ayo announced his departure as De La Salle coach, the Green Archers didn’t waste time naming his successor, Louie Gonzalez.

“De La Salle University announces the appointment of Jose Luis Gonzalez III as head coach of the men’s basketball team effective Jan. 1, 2018,” the university’s Office of Sports Development announced yesterday.

Gonzalez’s appointment ended the drama surrounding the Green Archers’ coaching position and months of speculation as to who will call the shots next season. 

Even while the UAAP Season 80 basketball tourney was ongoing, talks about Ayo’s impending departure swirled like wildfire.

Ayo, who was rumored to be jumping over to University of Santo Tomas, kept mum for months before revealing this week he was leaving the Taft-based squad after two seasons.

With Gonzalez at the helm, adjustments won’t be that much for the Archers.

Gonzalez was Ayo’s chief deputy the entire time at DLSU, where they won the title in 2016 and took runner- up honors this year. Previously, they led underdog Letran to the NCAA diadem.

The newly promoted coach will have his baptism of fire in next month’s PCCL tournament.