Yes, the Pacman, the Fighting Pride of the Philippines, has taken on a new career as head coach in the Philippines'--and Asia's--first professional basketball league.

Pacman will coach a still nameless team sponsored by South Korea's Kia Motor Corporation, that country's second largest car maker. Kia is represented in the Philippines by Columbian Autocar Corporation.

Like Us on Facebook

Kia announced its hiring of the eight-time world boxing champion at a packed press conference in Manila. Pacquiao is also a Congressman representing his home province of Saranggani in Mindanao Island in southern Philippines.

It's still a puzzle why a professional boxer will head a professional basketball team in the Philippine Basketball Association or PBA, Asia's first pro cage league founded in 1975. Pacquiao has admitted his only experience as a head coach was when he organized and led a local team in his home province a few years ago. That wasn't a pro team.

Commissioner Chito Salud said Pacquiao brings star power to the PBA, which has been hit by anemic ticket sales and a declining popularity among basketball crazy Filipinos.

"But I think what we're missing here is what does Manny really bring to the table in so far as the PBA is concerned?" he asked.

"Of course there's the wow factor, there's the point of interest, pulling power of Manny Pacquiao. But I want to emphasize that Manny is the embodiment of what the PBA is striving to stand for. And what is that? Highest degree of excellence and sportsmanship with regard to fan and public interest."

As for Pacquiao, he's happy to prove his mettle in the sport he loves next to boxing.

"I'm very happy to be named head coach of Kia," said Pacquiao. "I really like basketball. Even though I have many accomplishments in boxing, basketball is still in my heart."

And how will he juggle the jobs of champion boxer, Congressman and professional basketball coach? Easy, it's "... just time management and self-discipline I'll be able to handle that."

And the Pacman's got a new surprise for Filipinos. He could also take on the role of playing coach.

How's that for a champion who stands tall at just 172 cm?

Tagsmanny pacquiao, Pacman, coach