“I just want to win”: Zavier Lucero eager to repay Magnolia’s trust after his committing his future to the team

The Magnolia Hotshots have secured a crucial piece of their future after Zavier Lucero signed a two-year contract extension, committing to the team just in time for the start of the PBA’s landmark 50th season.

Lucero, one of the breakout stars of the recent Philippine Cup, reportedly drew interest from clubs in the Korean Basketball League (KBL) before ultimately deciding to stay with Magnolia. His decision came following productive talks with newly appointed head coach and PBA legend LA Tenorio, who now steps into his first head coaching role after an illustrious playing career.

The former UP Fighting Maroon was instrumental for the Hotshots last conference, posting averages of 18.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, and is expected to be a focal point of Tenorio’s revamped offensive system.

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“There were some things that management wanted, some things that I wanted. Talks were good. I’m super grateful to them for putting their trust in me,” Lucero said. I just want to win. Everyone has their opinions on what I should be doing, but my expectation is always the same—I just want to help us win.”

Despite his standout performances, Lucero emphasized that basketball remains a team game and success will only come if everyone contributes.

“I understand that I will be on the floor, and I have God-given talent that should help us. But I can’t do it by myself—none of us can. It’s about putting it together and contributing wherever I can.”

LUCEROOOOO HITS THAT FOUR 🤯

Zavier Lucero enters clutch mode, sinking a four-point shot for the Magnolia Hotshots to force overtime against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in Game 3 of their PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup quarterfinal series!#PBASeason49 #PBAAngatAngLaban pic.twitter.com/o6kGhQlfQm

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) September 29, 2024

The Hotshots made a bold move in the offseason by parting ways with longtime head coach Chito Victolero, who had led the franchise since 2016. Replacing him is LA Tenorio, a respected floor general and six-time PBA champion, now transitioning into coaching.

“It’s a blessing to have someone that just got off the court and could probably still play,” said Lucero about Tenorio.

“He sees the game from a player’s perspective but also brings wisdom from decades of playing professionally. What he’s implementing is how basketball should be played—right system, right defense, doing things the right way.”

Magnolia’s offseason overhaul didn’t stop at coaching. The team released veteran big man Rafi Reavis, ending a storied 15-year partnership with the 48-year-old, one of the league’s oldest active players.

In the front office, Jayson Webb has been appointed as the new team governor, while Kirk Collier joins the coaching staff as an assistant coach after a stint with Barangay Ginebra.

On the player personnel side, the Hotshots:

• Re-signed Peter Alfaro, Russel Escoto, and Joseph Eriobu 
• Acquired veteran guard Paolo Taha via free agency 

Lucero, who is continuing his development and recovery in the United States during the offseason, is expected to return fully ready for the grind of Season 50.

With new leadership in the locker room and refreshed energy from the sidelines, Magnolia enters PBA Season 50 with cautious optimism. The pressure is high—but with Lucero at the helm, Tenorio drawing up plays, and a revamped roster, the Hotshots are positioning themselves to be serious contenders once again.

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