American coach Alex Compton has resigned as head coach of the Alaska Aces in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), with Jeffrey Cariaso take over his spot.
“We are very sorry to see Alex leave the team. He had a tremendous impact on the team and was very concerned with the players’ well-being on and off the court,” said Alaska team owner Wilfred Steven Uytengsu in a statement released on Thursday, August 22.
Compton spent five years with Alaska and led the team to five Finals appearances.
Aside from Compton, assistant coaches Eric Altamirano and Paulo Layug have resigned.
Cariaso will have Tony dela Cruz, Monch Gavieres, Danny Ildefonso and Franco Atienza on the Alaska bench.
In the statement, it was Uytengsu who personally asked Compton to give up his post.
“Yesterday at his house, a man I deeply respect, Fred Uytengsu, sat down with me, looked me in the eye, and asked me to step down,” Compton said. “I accepted his direction and have agreed to resign as head coach of the Alaska Aces. It has been an honor for me to coach such a storied franchise. I have made great relationship sand a lot of love for people in the organization. Being a part of the Alaska family has meant a lot to me and my family, and we will always treasure our time with the Aces.”
Cariaso, for his part, thanked the Alaska management for elevating him as head coach.
“Truly a blessing to elevate into this level of leadership. I am honoured for the opportunity and genuinely humbled as I face the challenge. Thank you Sir Fred and management for the trust. Certainly, I will give my best, nothing less,” Cariaso, who won multiple championships as an Alaska player.
