Converge tapped Arellano University head coach Chico Manabat as its new lead assistant mentor ahead of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup that starts in April.

Manabat will take over from former assistant coach Charles Tiu who stepped down last week to dedicate more time with his family and business.

Aside from Tiu, also leaving the FiberXers were strength and conditioning coaches Nico Francisco and Gelo Vito as well as analytics head Paulo Maligalig.

Yesterday, Alex Cabagnot also announced his retirement from Converge to join Chris Gavina’s coaching staff at University of the East in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines.

Manabat’s hiring no longer came as a surprise as he maintains a strong relationship with Converge governor Archen Cayabyab, who used to be his teammate at National University.

Despite his appointment, Manabat will remain as head coach of Arellano in the National Collegiate Athletic Association, similar to the arrangement of Tiu when he was serving as chief tactician of College of Saint Benilde and Converge at the same time.

Under Manabat, Arellano finished seventh place with a 7-11 win-loss record in Season 100 of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament.