US coach to call shots for Archers

MANILA, Philippines — La Salle is plotting its return to UAAP contention with a new guy, American coach Jermaine Byrd, at the helm.

A highly placed source said Byrd, who had stints in the G-League as assistant coach and in Korea as player development mentor, is set to take over from Louie Gonzalez as the Archers rebuild and regroup after missing the Final Four of the recent tournament.

“It’s Jermaine Byrd,” the source said yesterday.

The Taft-based squad sought to retool its think tank after a disappointing fifth place finish in Season 81. Aside from Byrd, Alab Pilipinas coach Jimmy Alapag and former Qatar tactician Tim Lewis were considered for the position.

“Jimmy Alapag was offered but begged off due to Alab work commitment (in the Asean Basketball League),” the source said. “Tim Lewis (for his part), signed a contract in Toronto to stay on course with his NBA dream.”

Byrd will link up with team consultant Danny Seigle, skills coach Kirk Collier, and strength and conditioning coach Chappy Callanta in whipping the Taft-based squad into shape as it bids to challenge the heavyweights led by back-to-back champ Ateneo next season.

Houston native Byrd served as deputy for the Tulsa 66ers, Sioux Falls, and LA Defenders and player development mentor for KBL sides Samsung Blue Minx and Goyang Orions.