Chico Lanete has been tapped to lead the Lyceum of the Philippines University Junior Pirates, marking a return to familiar ground for the former standout.
The appointment, confirmed by LPU ahead of NCAA Season 102, puts the 46-year-old in charge of the school’s high school program as it looks to regain competitiveness.
“Well, of course, we are very happy and proud to have appointed a head coach who is an alumnus of LPU,” said LPU athletic director Dr. Allan Layco. “He is already familiar with the Lycean culture and the Laurel family’s philosophy in running the team.”
Lanete suited up for the Pirates from 2000 to 2003 when the school was still competing in the NCRAA, helping steer the squad to three consecutive finals appearances. He collected Rookie of the Year honors early in his collegiate career and later earned Mythical Five recognition.
“Siyempre, super grateful and honored ako na makabalik sa LPU. Malaki ang naging role ng LPU sa narating ko as a basketball player,” said Lanete. “So coming back now as a head coach means a lot to me. Ngayon, excited ako to give back and help develop the next generation of players.”
He takes over from Al Vergara, who handled the team for the past two seasons. Under Vergara, the Junior Pirates struggled to gain traction, finishing 1-8 in NCAA Season 100 before posting a 3-10 mark in the following campaign’s group stage. The team managed to reach the quarterfinals after a play-in win over San Sebastian but was later eliminated by San Beda.
Lanete brings prior experience from the 3×3 scene, having worked as head trainer for Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas teams in the FIBA 3×3 World Tour from 2022 to 2023.
Tasked with steering the juniors program forward, Lanete said his plans extend beyond on-court results.
“For the team, siyempre we want to build a strong, disciplined, and competitive program that can consistently contend. Pero more than that, ang goal ko for the players is to help them grow hindi lang sa basketball, but also in character, work ethic, and mindset,” he said.
“So ipinagpe-pray ko ‘yan, na ma-guide ko rin sila not just for games, but sa life din beyond basketball. Kasi alam na natin ‘yan e, galing na tayo dyan. Hindi naman habang-buhay ang basketball.”
