Shaking Up Morayta: Mike Reyes takes helm as FEU Tams basketball program director

A new chapter is set to begin for the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws basketball program, as the institution officially announced the appointment of Mike Reyes as its new program director. This move signals a significant change in direction for the Morayta-based squad, as Reyes steps in to replace former Tamaraw Denok Miranda.

The decision comes after a challenging period for the FEU men’s basketball team, which has missed the UAAP Final Four for three consecutive seasons, including two under Miranda’s direct leadership as both head coach and program director. In Season 86, the Tamaraws finished with a 3-11 win-loss record under Miranda as head coach.

Mike Reyes, brother of seasoned PBA coach Chot Reyes, brings a wealth of experience in youth athlete development to his new role. He boasts an impressive track record, having won championships in both the UAAP (Juniors division) and the CESAFI, most notably leading the Southwestern University (SWU) Cobras to a CESAFI title in 2019. His coaching philosophy, described as “constraints-led,” focuses on fostering a consistent approach to player development across all levels of the FEU basketball program.

In a social media post, FEU outlined Reyes’ expanded responsibilities: “Coach Mike will now be tasked to take the reins of the UAAP Boys 19 and Boys 16 basketball teams as well as work hand in hand with Coach Sean Chambers to ensure a consistent approach in developing student-athletes from Junior High School to College.” This comprehensive approach aims to streamline the development pathway for future Tamaraws from a young age.

FEU names Mike Reyes as the new basketball program director, succeeding Coach Denok Miranda #ReadMore https://t.co/RaQqVl8Hxd#UAAPSeason88 pic.twitter.com/UK9QjfDa3v

— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) June 17, 2025

While acknowledging the recent struggles, FEU expressed gratitude for Miranda’s contributions. “We thank former program head Denok Miranda for the work he has done with FEU basketball the past years and wish him the best,” the school stated. Miranda, a revered alumnus who helped FEU win two UAAP championships as a player in 2003 and 2004, had initially taken over as head coach before transitioning to program director when Sean Chambers was appointed as the men’s team head coach. Miranda will now reportedly focus on an assistant coaching role with an MPBL team.

The appointment of Mike Reyes reflects FEU’s commitment to revitalizing its basketball program and returning to its winning tradition. With a new program director at the helm and a clear focus on holistic player development from the junior ranks to the collegiate level, the Tamaraws are hoping to build a more competitive and sustainable future in the highly competitive UAAP landscape. Fans will be eager to see how Reyes’ vision and experience will translate into success on the court in the upcoming seasons.

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