JACOB BEGS OFF AS COACH OF RP NATIONAL TEAM
Manila, Nov. 12, 1997 - American Ron Jacobs announced last night that he was turning down the offer to coach the Philippine national team. He said the national team need not be subjected to unnecessary distraction from intrigues and the emotional debate on his appointment as head coach.
Philippine Basketball Association commission Emilio Bernardino is scheduled to meet today with all PBA coaches to explain his reasons in choosing the coach handling the all-pro Asia team.
Jacob said he will hand his "Dear John" letter to Bernardino before the meeting begins.
"It's a big honor and I'm thanking the PBA for considering me for the job. I know the feeling since I've handled the national team before," said Jacob.
"But because I know it would take the team a lot to win the championship, they should not, at this stage, be the victims of all this controversy and subjected to unnecessary distraction."
He said, however, that he was making himself available for whatever assistance the team may need, including serving as a consultant or scout.
Jacob's appointment, although welcomed by many, was resented by some in the Philippine Basketball Coaches Association, particularly Robert Jaworski who was very vocal against Jacob's selection.
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