La Salle makes it official: It’s Topex

Topex Robinsons ends his tenure as Phoenix head coach. – PBA PICTURES

The plans that have been in place since La Salle left their former coach unsigned last year are finally coming to fruition.

Topex Robinson, who everyone has fingered as the next coach of the Archers when he parted ways with Phoenix in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), will return to the college scene as coach of La Salle for this year’s UAAP season.

“De La Salle University is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Christopher” Topex “Robinson as head coach of the Men’s Basketball Team effective today January 19, 2023,” La Salle said in a statement issued Thursday.

The 48-year-old Robinson made his UAAP debut with the Green Archers after leaving his mark in the PBA and NCAA—both as a player and coach.

Very speculative

There has been much speculation that Robinson will become La Salle’s head coach after the school did not renew the contract of veteran mentor Derrick Pumaren, who coached the Archers for the last two seasons, at the end of last year. And while Robinson chose not to renew with Master Fuel, many saw it as a sign that a deal between the two parties was close.

As many as five or six coaches were considered for the post, sources told the Inquirer, but Robinson stood out as the favorite throughout the selection process. Two sources told the Inquirer that only Meralco assistant coach Luigi Trillo and La Salle women’s mentor Cholo Villanueva were even considered. Villanueva may be part of the coaching staff in an undetermined capacity.

Robinson called shots for San Sebastian College from NCAA Seasons 87 to 90 with a runner-up finish in the first year as a team coach led by Calvin Abueva, Ian Sangalang and Ronald Pascual.

18-game sweep

The ex-Stag took the action to Intramuros and led the CJ Perez-led Lyceum to a historic 18-game elimination round for a straight Finals appearance in Season 93 only to lose the series to San Beda.

Robinson will take on a talented La Salle team joined by UAAP Season 85 top rookie Kevin Quiambao, former Mythical team member Michael Phillips, former San Beda star Evan Nelle and former University of Santo Tomas spitfire Mark Nonoy.

Insiders said La Salle is high on Robinson’s ability to build character in the team and patiently teach players to anchor a winning program.

La Salle finished last season with a 7-7 record, but missed the Final Four after losing to Adamson, 80-76, in the knockout game.

“DLSU extends its appreciation to former head coach Derrick Pumaren for his dedicated service to the Green Archers,” the team’s statement said.

Get the hottest sports news straight to your inbox

Read Next

Don’t miss the latest news and information.

For suggestions, complaints, or questions, please contact us.