MANILA, Philippines–LA Tenorio on Saturday thanked Barangay Ginebra as he formally announced the end of his 19-year PBA career to take on a new challenge as the new coach of sister team Magnolia.

Tenorio said in a lengthy social media post that it was the right time to take on a new chapter after almost two decades of winning championships, representing the country and surviving cancer.

READ: LA Tenorio hits back at critics, backs Gilas Youth despite early exit

“As much as I would like to believe my work is not done and would love to play for Ginebra, opportunities and circumstances arise,” Tenorio said as part of his message that came on the eve of the PBA Rookie Draft which will be his first official act as Magnolia mentor.

“With the utmost trust and love of the San Miguel management, my family and I believe it is best to take this opportunity and step into this next chapter of my life in the world of basketball—coaching,” he added.

The former Ateneo star spent much of his career with Ginebra, where he played for 13 seasons that resulted in seven championships. Tenorio also played for San Miguel Beer and Alaska.

Tenorio completed his final season in July, but not before hitting a dramatic three-pointer in Game 6 of the PBA Philippine Cup against San Miguel. It was also the same month when SMC sports director Alfrancis Chua announced Tenorio’s appointment.

READ: PBA: LA Tenorio hints at possible retirement after Ginebra exit

He is taking over a Magnolia squad that has yet to win a title since the 2018 Governors’ Cup. Tenorio took charge after the Hotshots spent nine seasons under Chito Victolero. The Hotshots are picking sixth overall in Sunday’s Draft at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

His announcement also came on the heels of his recent stint calling the shots for Gilas Pilipinas in the Fiba U-16 Asia Cup in Mongolia where he defended the team after coming under fire for losing to Bahrain in the qualification for the quarterfinals game.

“In my new chapter as coach, I will continue to give my best and serve the game I love,” Tenorio said. “As I remain a part of the PBA family, this is not goodbye. Paalam sa jersey, pero hindi sa puso.”