MANILA, Philippines – University of Santo Tomas (UST) has tabbed Rodil "Boy" Sablan as the new head coach of the Growling Tigers, the Varsitarian reported on Tuesday.

Sablan, who played for UST in the 1980s, replaces former head coach Bong dela Cruz who left the team amid a series of controversies that included allegations of physical abuse by members of the team.

(READ: Vigil in trouble for UST after UAAP rule change)

According to the Varsitarian's report, Sablan was introduced to the Growling Tigers on Tuesday morning and started training the team on Wednesday.

The Growling Tigers made it to the Finals of the UAAP Season 78 men's basketball tournament but lost key members of that squad, including MVP-candidate Kevin Ferrer and veteran big man Karim Abdul.

Two other veterans, Louie Vigil and Jamil Sheriff, may also be unavailable for their Season 79 campaign due to a new UAAP rule that lowered the league's age limit to 24 years old.

UST will host the UAAP's 79th season.

(For more sports coverage, visit the ABS-CBN Sports website.)