Coach Jinino Manansala is making a bid to return to the University of Santo Tomas basketball program.
Manansala, who was part of the coaching staff of former mentor Aldin Ayo, has sent his resume to the Institute of Physical Education and Athletics for the position.
The IPEA, now headed by Fr. Rodel Cansancio, is reviewing a growing list of aspirants to become the next head coach of program.
So far, there are now 10 candidates for the position.
This includes retired Philippine Basketball Association import Sean Chambers, former national youth team member Aries Dimaunahan, former Ginebra head coach Siot Tanquingcen, Chris Cantonjos, Estong Ballesteros, Chris Gavina, Potit De Vera, Ed Cordero, and Gilbert Lao.
When Ayo came aboard to coach the Growling Tigers, Manansala became one of his assistants.
Manansala was also appointed as the head coach of the UST Tiger Cubs in 2020.
Other applicants include former UST captain Jeric Fortuna, who has expressed his desire to be part of the Growling Tigers’ staff as an assistant coach.
Then, there’s Kim Lo, a player from 2010 to 2012.
Ayo was recently sanctioned by the league last week for allegedly holding training activities without getting the proper go-signal from concerned authorities.