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NLEX coach Uichico sees potential in rookie Jonnel Policarpio

Sports | Basketball

NLEX coach Uichico sees potential in rookie Jonnel Policarpio

By Reynald I. Magallon

At A Glance

NLEX head coach Jong Uichico is looking forward to further honing the team's sixth overall pick Jonnel Policarpio who could play a key role for the Road Warriors in the future.

NLEX head coach Jong Uichico is looking forward to further honing the team’s sixth overall pick Jonnel Policarpio who could play a key role for the Road Warriors in the future.

Photo from NLEX Road Warriors

And that’s exactly why NLEX made sure to secure the services of the former La Salle forward for the upcoming season after signing him to a three-year deal on Monday, July 29.

"It will take patience from both sides for Jonnel to realize his full potential," said the multi-titled coach who is fully taking over the head coaching role for the Road Warriors in Season 49.

"As coaches, we want to be the ones who'll teach him not just on the court but also off of it. He'll be an integral part of our team's future,” he added.

No less than NLEX Corporation President J. Luigi L. Bautista was in attendance during the signing that also included Uichico, team governor Ronald Dulatre and team manager Virgil Villavicencio.

Policarpio, a one-time UAAP champion with La Salle, is looking forward to formally joining the Road Warriors as he vows to repay the trust of the entire team.

"Nagpapasalamat ako sa NLEX kasi kahit ako hindi ko inexpect na kukunin nila ako kaagad. Tapos ngayon, three years pa binigay nila sa akin. Talagang susuklian ko 'yung tiwala na binigay nila sa akin,” said Policarpio.

With Policarpio's 6-foot-5 frame and ability to play at the wings, the Road Warriors added a new piece who could potentially contribute to main gun Robert Bolick, especially with Kevin Alas yet to fully recover from an ACL injury.

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