Ginebra relegates Tenorio to UFA, activates Jayson David

Many may be surprised to learn that Lewis Alfred Tenorio has been placed on Barangay Ginebra's unrestricted free agent list, with rights to salary. In his place, Jayson David has been reactivated to the Gin Kings' active roster.

This decision came just a day before Ginebra’s matchup with the NorthPort Batang Pier on Wednesday, April 30, at the Philsports Arena, following a tough 93-104 defeat to the powerhouse San Miguel Beermen.

Tenorio's playing time has been limited this season, particularly after Ginebra secured the services of RJ Abarrientos during the draft.

The four-time Finals MVP saw limited action during Ginebra’s recent Commissioner's Cup Finals series, where the team fell to TNT in a hard-fought best-of-seven series that even stretched into overtime.

Additionally, the 40-year-old veteran is now shifting his focus to coaching the Gilas Pilipinas Boys in preparation for the upcoming FIBA U16 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers.

The SEABA U16 tournament serves as a qualifier for the 2025 FIBA U16 Asia Cup, with the top two teams advancing to the continental competition, set to take place later this year in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.

The Philippines enters the tournament as a heavy favorite, having dominated the SEABA U16 competitions for the past five editions.

This situation is not new for Ginebra, having navigated similar circumstances before—most notably with Joe Devance. At that time, a gentleman’s agreement among PBA teams ensured that no other franchise would try to pry away the Fil-Am center, respecting Ginebra's control over his rights. A similar approach may apply in Tenorio’s case.

As Tenorio transitions into this new chapter of his career, his legacy with Ginebra remains firmly ingrained in the franchise’s history. His on-court contributions were monumental, and now, as a coach, he will continue shaping the future of Philippine basketball. Tenorio’s impact will echo for years to come, both on the sidelines and in the hearts of basketball fans.f