Ateneo coach Tab Baldwin. UAAP Media
MANILA (UPDATED) -- Tab Baldwin will continue to lead the Ateneo de Manila University basketball program for the foreseeable future.
This, after the coach signed a contract extension with the school for at least three more years, or until UAAP Season 91.
University President Fr Roberto Yap SJ announced the development during the traditional send-off mass for the Ateneo Blue Eagles on Saturday at the Jesuit Residence Chapel, just hours before they open their UAAP Season 88 campaign against Far Eastern University.
"Thank you for building such a strong program the past years, and we are happy you are renewing with us," said Yap.
Baldwin has been in charge of the Ateneo men's basketball team for nine years now, steering them to six Finals appearances and four championships. However, they are coming off a disappointing campaign in Season 87 that saw them miss the Final 4 with a 4-10 win-loss record.
Last week, Baldwin confirmed that he is in the final year of his contract with Ateneo though he noted that "talks are positive" between him and the university.
READ: Tab Baldwin on contract extension with Ateneo — ‘The talks are positive’
Upon signing his contract extension, the American-Kiwi coach stressed his commitment to leading the Blue Eagles back to the top of the UAAP mountain.
"With you guys, I will be able to be a part of rebuilding this program — bringing glory and success back to the hill," said Baldwin.
Ateneo is banking on the sophomore guard Jared Bahay, veteran Josh Lazaro, and one-and-done recruit Kymani Ladi in Season 88.