It’s down to two of the PBA’s finest tacticians. TNT’s Chot Reyes and San Miguel’s Leo Austria are set to go head-to-head for the coveted Baby Dalupan Coach of the Year trophy as the PBA Press Corps holds its annual Awards Night on October 13 at Novotel Manila.
Reyes came close to a historic grand slam in Season 49, leading the Tropang 5G to championships in both the Governors’ Cup and Commissioner’s Cup before settling for a runner-up finish in the Philippine Cup.
Austria, however, stood in his way — guiding San Miguel to reclaim the league’s most prestigious crown, the Philippine Cup, and spoiling TNT’s triple-title dream.
Both men are no strangers to the award named after the legendary “Maestro” of Philippine basketball coaching. Reyes remains the winningest recipient with six titles, while Austria has earned the honor four times.
Aside from the Coach of the Year, the PBA Press Corps will also hand out the Danny Floro Executive of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, Bogs Adornado Comeback Player of the Year, Scoring Champion, Mr. Quality Minutes, All-Rookie Team honors, the Order of Merit for most Player of the Week awards, and the Game of the Season recognition.
The stage is set — and once again, two of Philippine basketball’s great minds are about to write another chapter in their storied rivalry.