AS part of its massive preparation for the PBA’s import-laced second conference, Barangay Ginebra has named Alfrancis Chua to replace Siot Tanquingcen as head coach in a development that was not surprising at all.

The Gin Kings are said to have one of the most formidable line-up in the league, but failed to wage a decent fight in the on-going Philippine Cup.

A report by Spin.PH said the sudden change in coach was aimed precisely to bring the best out of the Gin Kings’ talented but under performing lineup.

Prior to the kick-off tournament, the Gin Kings too were said to be one of the fastest (teams) owing to the presence of four fleet-footed guards in Jayjay Helterbrand, Mark Caguioa, then new acquisition LA Tenorio and Mike Cortez, whom they later traded to Air21 in the middle of the tournament.

The Gin Kings were able to make a string of victories to make the quarterfinal round, only to be bumped off by Rain or Shine.

The online report also said Tangquingcen was informed of management’s decision on Tuesday.

Tanquingcen has won three PBA championships in his career but none since the 2008-2009 season. Under him, Ginebra has not reached the finals over the last four conferences, the report said.

It is likely that the former University of Santo Tomas stalwart will go back to being an assistant coach, a position he previously held under Jong Uichico.

Tanquingcen will nevertheless receive the same compensation he got as head coach, the report added.

“Pahiyang lang ‘yan. Pero yung sweldo ni Siot, ganun pa rin. Saka may plano kami sa kanya,” Barangay Ginebra’s Robert Non told Spin.ph.