ALABI RETURN UNCERTAIN, ENERGY MIGHT PASS UP ON ASIAN IMPORT
For coach Koy Banal, Barako Bull reaching the Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals is already an achievement considering the manpower he had to work with.
“With that kind of lineup, we’re thankful na we got to the quarters,” he said. “Thankful kami na naging competitive, but we can’t be contented with this because if we do, we will not grow.”
As much as the Energy want to prepare early for the Governors’ Cup, Banal’s plans might take a hit with the uncertainty of Solomon Alabi’s status with Barako Bull.
“It will depend on him. His fiancé is pregnant and she’s going to give birth on May. We’re not sure if Solo is ready, not just physically, but mentally. We’ll see,” said Banal.
The 7-foot-1 Nigerian averaged 23.7 points, 19.5 rebounds, 3.7 blocks, 1.4 assists, and 1.4 steals in his stay with Barako Bull this second conference, and it might be hard for Banal and the rest of the Energy management to find a replacement for Alabi in the third conference.
Barako Bull can sign an import with no height restrictions and the soft-spoken coach said that they are still considering their options. However, getting an Asian reinforcement isn’t one of those.
“Right now, I believe it will be good if we’ll have an Asian import, but ang kailangan namin yung stretch four and the 6-foot-3 limit might not help us with that,” said Banal. “I’m not sold on the idea. I think our locals can compete naman eh. Gusto ko rin mabigyan ng breaks yung mga locals.” (RL)
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