Nine-time PBA champion coach Jong Uichico is set to take the helm at NLEX following the resignation of former coach Frankie Lim, the team announced on Friday, June 7.

Uichico is back at the head coaching role in the big league after serving as a lead assistant coach for the Road Warriors  and the first time since he last held such post back in 2016 with the TNT franchise.

"We are excited to start a new chapter with Jong Uichico as the new head coach of the NLEX Road Warriors!," the team said in a post in its official social media accounts.

"A nine-time PBA champion, Coach Jong will be at the helm as the Road Warriors continue our quest to win our first franchise championship," it added.

In Uichico's promotion, NLEX is hoping to finally find the road that leads to its long-coveted title.

Since joining the league in 2014, NLEX never made it to the Finals and only had two semifinals appearance under its belt, both under the tutelage of former coach Yeng Guiao.

The 61-year-old Uichico, who joined NLEX as a deputy to Lim last year, is bringing in a wealth of experience highlighted by his two PBA Coach of the Year awards.

His championships mostly came during his years as part of San Miguel but his most recent title was in 2015 when he steered TNT Katropa to a Commissioner's Cup title.

He also served as a consultant for Meralco from 2012 to 2014.

Meanwhile, the Road Warriors expressed their gratitude to Lim who took over the team following Guiao's departure and led NLEX to a quarterfinals appearance in the 2024 Philippine Cup.

'Today, Coach Frankie Lim will be stepping down as our head coach. We deeply appreciate his hard work, dedication, and his positive contributions to the team over the past 2 years," said NLEX.

"Thank you, Coach, for all the memories and your unwavering efforts. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors," it added.