MANILA – Jamie Malonzo and Von Pessumal found themselves now playing for Ginebra after the Philippine Basketball Association approved two trades which also involved San Miguel and NorthPort on Tuesday.
In the first trade, the Beermen sent Pessumal to the Gin Kings while getting two future second round picks from the Batang Pier.
The draft picks involved are for Seasons 50 and 51.
NorthPort got Kent Salado and Jeff Chan in the three-team swap.
Pessumal, who only played limited minutes for SMB, especially during its successful run in the Philippine Cup, provides Ginebra a three-point specialist who can spread the defense.
In the other trade, the Batang Pier shipped Malonzo to the Gin Kings in exchange for Arvin Tolentino, Prince Caperal, and Ginebra's first round pick in next season's draft.
Malonzo, known for his dunks with a decent touch from beyond the arc, is expected to provide Ginebra the youthful energy in its veteran-laden lineup led by LA Tenorio, Japeth Aguilar, and Christian Standhardinger as well as reigning Most Valuable Player Scottie Thompson.
Salado, Chan, Tolentino, and Caperal will make their NorthPort debut right on Day 1 of the Commissioner's Cup on Wednesday, taking on Phoenix in the nightcap of the doubleheader at 5:45 p.m., right after the 3 p.m. clash between Blackwater and guest team Bay Area.
Chan, however, thanked the Ginebra squad and its fans for his time there, in which he won four championships.
"Grateful to have won 4 championships with Ginebra and to have been able to work with the coaches and staff. Thank you, boss Alfrancis Chua, boss RSA (San Miguel Corporation president Ramon Ang) and to the true fans who have been with me, kahit saan, since Day 1. Maraming, maraming salamat! To my teammates, thank you sa lahat!!! You guys made it fun and were the best part of being a Gin King," Chan said via Instagram. (PNA)
