Looks like Alaska is really close to granting Vic Manuel’s request of being traded to another team.
The Aces received two offers from different teams for the services of the former national team standout, who expressed his desire to be traded to another squad in the coming PBA season.
Dickie Bachmann, Alaska’s representative to the PBA board, confirmed that they’re now in talks with the two squads, but didn’t reveal which ones are interested on the 33-year-old veteran forward. The Aces' coaching staff and management are in no rush to enter into a transaction.
“The key here is not to rush it,” Bachmann revealed in a text message. “We are looking for the best situation and the coaching staff will decide soon which among these two offers is better.”
Instead, the Aces appeared to be preparing to move on from Manuel by signing two other forwards in second-generation players Jeron Teng and Gab Banal, while still working on a possible trade for their 6-foot-4 star.
Teng, son of ‘The Robocop’ and many-time PBA champion Alvin Teng, agreed to a three-year extension with the Aces, who are trying to groom him to become their future franchise player.
Banal, son of former PBA champion coach and multi-titled champion player Joel Banal, was also signed up by Alaska.
Unlike Teng, Banal is on a comeback trail, making his return to the big league after a glorious stint in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League and an impressive performance in the Chooks-To-Go 3 x 3 national tournament.
According to Bachmann, Banal opted for a one-conference deal as per the player’s request.
“He wants to prove himself first,” added Bachmann.
Alaska also signed up veteran journeyman center Yousef Taha to a one-year deal, added Bachmann.
With Alaska securing its frontline by signing up Teng and Banal, the team can now focus on Manuel as well as the coming PBA Rookie Draft.
The Aces will be picking No. 7 in the first round of the draft that is teeming with talent, which could go as far as the third round.
The team also has two second round picks which it can utilize for its rebuilding plans.