MANILA — Former PBA standout Gerry Esplana has been appointed as the new commissioner of the Pinoyliga Cup, as the league returns this weekend with its Alumni Cup. Known for his calm demeanor on the court, Esplana brings decades of experience both as a player and coach, promising to guide the league with the same poise that marked his basketball career.
Esplana enjoyed a 13-year professional career in the PBA, playing for teams such as Presto Tivoli, Sta. Lucia Realty, and Shell. He made an immediate impact, earning Rookie of the Year honors in 1990 after being selected ninth overall in the draft. Among his career highlights, he led Shell to the 1999 All-Filipino Conference championship, securing the Finals MVP award.
Beyond his playing career, Esplana also made his mark in coaching. He helmed the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals from 2011 to 2014, later joining the coaching staffs of the UST Growling Tigers (2016–2017) and the Valenzuela Classics in the MPBL (2019). His extensive experience across different levels of basketball is expected to bring credibility and direction to the Pinoyliga Cup.
“I am honored to serve as commissioner of a league built by legends, for legends,” Esplana said. “My goal is to help former pros and collegiate stars return to the court, inspire the next generation, and continue building a legacy for Philippine basketball.”
Benny Benitez, director of the Pinoyliga Cup, welcomed Esplana’s appointment, noting that his vast playing and coaching experience commands respect among the league’s participants, many of whom shared the court with him during their careers.
The Alumni Cup officially kicks off today, Saturday, November 29, at the Enderun Colleges Gym in Taguig. Defending champion Knights-Perea Moto District will face the Red Warriors at 5 p.m. Other teams joining the competition include the Red Lions, Cardinals-Tela Athletics, Soaring Falcons-Shawarma Shack, Green Archers-Maharlika, Growling Tigers, and the Blue Eagles.
With Esplana at the helm, organizers are confident the league will not only showcase competitive basketball but also celebrate the legacy of some of the country’s most respected players.
