Converge enlists Serbian expertise: ex-Gilas coach Toroman and Jovicic join Dennis Pineda’s coaching team

For PBA Season 50, Converge FiberXers will benefit from a fresh infusion of international coaching expertise thanks to the appointment of Serbian consultants Rajko Toroman and Djordje Jovicic, who will work alongside newly installed head coach and Pampanga vice governor Dennis ‘Delta’ Pineda.

Toroman, revered for launching the landmark Smart Gilas program, is making a prominent return to the FiberXers. The Serbian mentor led the national team from 2009 to 2011 and helped elevate Philippine basketball on the international stage. 

He also guided Iran to FIBA Asia glory and helped them qualify for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, before consulting for various PBA teams and national programs across the region.

Meanwhile, Djordje Jovicic brings local familiarity and deep roots in regional development. He has been integral to the coaching staff of the Pampanga Giant Lanterns in the MPBL and roles within the Pampanga Delta youth squads. His résumé includes a stint as coach of Indonesia’s Pelita Jaya in 2023, as well as serving as an assistant with several Serbian national youth teams, showcasing a blend of international and grassroots coaching experience.

“Coach Rajko will be coming (after) mga five days from now. Nandoon na si coach Rajko at iba pang Serbian coach na kasama sa juniors ng Pampanga, kinausap ko rin siya to help me dito sa team,” said Pineda during Sunday’s PBA Draft.

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Aside from ex-Gilas head coach Rajko Toroman, Converge will be bringing in fellow Serbian Djordje Jovicic as a consultant for Delta Pineda for the upcoming season. That’s some serious coaching minds on the Fiberxers’ bench.

The only thing left to do is sign up Mikey Williams.

— PBA insider (@PBAinsider) September 10, 2025

Pineda also reflected on the valuable working relationship he has developed with the two Serbians.

“Matagal ko na rin nakasama ‘yung dalawa especially si coach Rajko. Malaking bagay na consultant ko talaga. Ako naman as a coach, okay naman ako sa lahat ng suggestions sa ikakaganda ng team,” he added.

Importantly, Pineda confirmed that the existing coaching staff remains intact. “All staff nandyan pa rin… Tulung-tulong lahat, walang mawawala. Magtutulong kaming lahat for the team,” he affirmed, indicating a seamless collaboration between local staff and global consultants.

With Toroman’s seasoned international outlook and Jovicic’s blend of local developmental insight, the FiberXers are set to forge a new era—one that balances proven strategy with fresh perspective as they gear up for Season 50.

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