Manny Pacquiao is set to enter a new career later this year as multiple reports confirmed that WBO welterweight champion was named as head coach of an expansion team in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).

Pacquiao was introduced in a press conference on Tuesday in the Philippines. Kia, one of the Philippines' leading car dealers, will make their debut in the professional basketball league in October.

Pacquiao's appointment drew criticisms on different social networking websites, but the Filipino boxing icon vowed to prove that he will be up to the task.

"This is going to be a huge responsibility but I am very happy," Pacquiao said. "I need to prove that I can excel in basketball especially as head coach of the team. It's Kia's first time to enter the league so we won't fail you. All basketball fans should look forward to our brand of plays."

Pacquiao, who promised that his team will be no pushover in their maiden season in Asia's first play-for-pay basketball league, is preparing to handle the team, but he also admitted that he could play for Kia next season.

However, the former boxing pound-for-pound king, who insisted that basketball was his first love, is still waiting for the league's decision about if he will be allowed to become the team's playing coach.

"I will follow the rules of the PBA (on drafting). I'm open to that," Pacquiao said. "I really love basketball that's why even though I've had my accomplishments in boxing, I'm still fond of basketball."

PBA's next season will start on Oct. 19, while Pacquiao's next fight is scheduled on Nov. 22, which means that his basketball duties will coincide with his training for his upcoming fight.

When asked about the possible conflict, Pacquiao, who is also serving as congressman of his home province in the Philippines, insisted that it just all about proper time management.

PBA commissioner Chito Salud also welcomed Pacquiao's entry in the league.

"There were comments and concerns regarding the possibility of Manny Pacquiao joining the PBA. Many of them have been genuinely to protect our national treasure," Salud said. "What we're missing here are the things that Manny brings -- the wow factor, the pulling power."

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