Austria, Compton join Alaska as assistant coaches

AKTV/Pranz Kaeno Billones

After a miserable season, the Alaska Aces are improving its brain trust in support of coach Luigi Trillo.

Hoping to improve on the team’s worst finish in years, the Aces are bringing in two key additions in their coaching staff, Adamson coach Leo Austria and former Powerade assistant coach Alex Compton.

Trillo confirmed the news to InterAKTV

“Both of them are already in. I haven’t spoken yet to Coach Leo, but I would bring him in along with Alex Compton,” Trillo told InterAKTV in a telephone interview.

Austria coached the Shell Turbochargers in the 2005-06 season and Welcoat from 2006 to 2007. He said he has yet to sign a contract, but confirmed he has already agreed in principle.

“Pirmahan na lang yung kulang. Hinihintay ko na lang yung pagpirma ng kontrata, then I will seek permission from Adamson that I will be joining the Alaska coaching staff in the PBA as assistant coach,” said Austria.

A former PBA Rookie of the Year, Austria said his involvement with Adamson won’t be a problem once he joins the Aces.

“Hindi naman siya magkaka-conflict sa schedule, both sa laro and ensayo,” said Austria.

An ace for the Aces?

Louie Alas could join also the Aces, according to Trillo.

“I’ve made recommendations to have him join the squad. He might join the team soon,” said Trillo.

Alas once coached Mobiline in the PBA and has won championships in college, the Metropolitan Basketball Association, and in international competition. He currently coaches Letran, which he has led to three titles in the NCAA.

He guided the Manila Metrostars to a championship in the MBA in 1999 with Compton and Romel Adducul as his key players. That same year, he piloted the Philippine team to the Southeast Asian Games gold medal in the men’s basketball competition.

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