Joe Devance Returns to Barangay Ginebra; Coach Yeng Guiao Criticizes PBA Quarterfinals Format

In an exciting development for PBA basketball fans, especially those of Barangay Ginebra, veteran player Joe Devance is making a comeback to the court. Meanwhile, Coach Yeng Guiao has voiced his concerns regarding the PBA’s quarterfinals format, while Blackwater Bossing’s George King expressed his desire to become a naturalized player for Gilas Pilipinas.

 

 

 

Joe Devance’s Return to Ginebra

After retiring from professional basketball, 47-year-old Joe Devance is set to rejoin Barangay Ginebra for the PBA quarterfinals. Fans were initially surprised to see him practicing with the team, but it was soon confirmed that he was given a new contract by Barangay Ginebra. Devance is expected to bolster Ginebra’s lineup as they face the Meralco Bolts in the upcoming quarterfinals.

Interestingly, Paul Garcia, whom Devance replaced, is now an unrestricted free agent. However, Ginebra will continue to pay Garcia’s salary despite his change in status. Other PBA teams are also free to make offers for Garcia’s services in the meantime.

 

 

 

Coach Yeng Guiao Critiques the PBA Quarterfinals Format

Coach Yeng Guiao has openly criticized the PBA’s quarterfinals format, arguing that it fails to reward the top-seeded teams adequately. He pointed out that the number one seeds from Group A (Talk ‘N Text) and Group B (Rain or Shine) have to face each other in the playoffs. According to Coach Guiao, this setup is unfair since top-seeded teams should have a smoother path to the finals as a reward for their performance during the season. He urged PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial to re-examine and adjust the format to ensure that the top seeds receive a more favorable path moving forward.

 

 

 

George King’s Standout Performance and Interest in Joining Gilas Pilipinas

Despite Blackwater Bossing’s elimination from the tournament, their import player George King delivered an impressive performance in their final game against Rain or Shine. King scored 64 points and grabbed 13 rebounds, helping his team secure a 118-139 victory over the top-seeded Rain or Shine. Following this stellar performance, King expressed interest in becoming a naturalized player for Gilas Pilipinas, hoping to contribute his talents to the national team.

Eligibility Complications for George King

However, there is a significant barrier to King’s aspiration to join Gilas Pilipinas. He had previously played for Team USA in the 2023 FIBA World Cup Americas qualifiers, which makes him ineligible to be a naturalized player for the Philippine team according to FIBA regulations.

Engaging with the Audience

In addition to these exciting updates, fans were encouraged to subscribe to basketball channels for more updates on PBA basketball. Shout-outs were given to various loyal viewers, reinforcing the active engagement between basketball enthusiasts and the latest developments in the PBA.

Conclusion

The return of Joe Devance, Coach Yeng Guiao’s remarks on the PBA quarterfinals format, and George King’s aspirations to join Gilas Pilipinas add to the excitement in the PBA. As the quarterfinals approach, fans eagerly await to see how these developments will unfold on the basketball court.