In a twist that surprised many in the PBA community, Borgie Hermida has emerged as a key figure in NLEX Road Warriors’ coaching lineup, following an unexpected shift in the team’s original plan.

Initially, NLEX had set its sights on bringing in Josh Reyes, a rising assistant coach from TNT Tropang Giga, as part of a carefully structured succession plan. The goal was simple: Reyes would join the team under veteran head coach Jong Uichico, gain experience, and gradually assume more responsibilities, eventually preparing to take over as head coach.

At the start, negotiations appeared smooth. Sources close to the talks confirmed that both parties were aligned on the development plan. However, the situation changed when Reyes’ camp introduced a new demand: he requested to be appointed head coach immediately, bypassing the understudy stage entirely.

This sudden request caught NLEX management off guard. Promoting Reyes directly would have disrupted the planned coaching transition and could have unsettled the team’s dynamics. Instead of accommodating the demand, NLEX chose to focus on internal talent — turning to Borgie Hermida, a trusted assistant familiar with the team and its strategies.

Hermida was elevated to first assistant coach, positioning him as the natural successor in the coaching hierarchy. His promotion reflects not just circumstance, but also merit: Hermida has built strong relationships with players, demonstrated a thorough understanding of Uichico’s coaching philosophy, and earned respect through consistent work ethic.

Promoting from within also underscores NLEX’s commitment to stability and long-term planning. By nurturing talent already embedded in the team culture, the franchise reinforces continuity and maintains a clear vision for future leadership.

Meanwhile, Reyes’ next steps remain uncertain. Though the NLEX opportunity didn’t unfold as originally anticipated, he still enjoys a reputation as a talented young coach. Whether he will pursue head coaching roles elsewhere or continue developing in his current environment remains to be seen.

This episode highlights the delicate balance that professional sports organizations must navigate: managing expectations, aligning personalities, and ensuring that succession plans enhance rather than disrupt team cohesion.

As Hermida steps into his expanded role, attention will turn to his impact on team performance. With Uichico remaining as head coach through the end of PBA Season 50, Hermida’s contributions will be closely observed, providing insight into both his growth and NLEX’s broader strategic direction.

Ultimately, Hermida’s promotion is a reminder that opportunities sometimes arise unexpectedly — and being prepared to seize them can define a career.