SI 6’8″ ANTHONY BENNETT NEW GINEBRA IMPORT | PESSUMAL NATRADE NA, SMB SUSUNOD NAMAN
The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) offseason is always filled with intriguing rumors and potential player movements, and this year is no different. With teams looking to bolster their rosters for the upcoming Commissioner’s Cup, some high-profile trades and signings are currently under discussion. Among the most buzzworthy developments are Barangay Ginebra San Miguel’s (Ginebra) search for a dominant big man and their pursuit of former NBA player Anthony Bennett as their import. Meanwhile, the San Miguel Beermen (SMB) and TNT Tropang Giga are also exploring potential trades that could reshape their lineups.
Ginebra’s Height Problem: Bonbon Pessumal Trade on the Horizon?
Barangay Ginebra, traditionally one of the most successful and popular teams in the PBA, is currently grappling with a height disadvantage in the Commissioner’s Cup. With towering imports making their way into the league, Ginebra recognizes the need for a physical presence in the frontcourt to compete against the likes of taller teams. This has prompted the Gin Kings to look into trading Bonbon Pessumal, their sharpshooting guard, to free up space for a bigger player.
Anthony Bennett: The Former NBA First Overall Pick Set to Join Ginebra?
In what could be one of the most exciting moves of the season, Ginebra is reportedly eyeing Anthony Bennett as their import for the Commissioner’s Cup. Bennett, a 6’8″ forward who was selected first overall in the 2013 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers, has faced an up-and-down career in the NBA. After a disappointing start in the league, Bennett bounced around various teams and eventually made his way to international basketball.
Now, after stints in Europe and other overseas leagues, Bennett could potentially revive his career in the PBA with Ginebra. If signed, Bennett’s size and athleticism could give the Gin Kings the physical edge they need in the post. A 6’8″ player with NBA experience could be the perfect solution to their height problems, and his addition would certainly make Ginebra a more formidable force in the tournament.
San Miguel Beermen: Paa Bonar or Ben Phillips Trade on the Table
Not to be outdone, the San Miguel Beermen are also in the trade market as they look to reinforce their frontcourt. Despite their overall strength, the Beermen have recognized that they need additional depth in their big man rotation, especially if they are to continue competing for championships. As a result, San Miguel is reportedly considering a trade for one of the following players: Paa Bonar or Ben Phillips.
Both Bonar and Phillips are known for their strong defensive presence and rebounding ability, making them attractive trade targets for a team like SMB that prides itself on dominance in the paint. If San Miguel is able to land one of these players, it would bolster their already impressive lineup, which includes stars like June Mar Fajardo and CJ Perez.
TNT Tropang Giga: Mikey Williams Trade Rumors
The TNT Tropang Giga, another powerhouse team in the PBA, are also not immune to trade rumors. Although the team is not actively looking to trade Mikey Williams, their star guard, the possibility of a trade remains on the table. Williams has been a key contributor to TNT’s success in recent years, but the Tropang Giga are said to be open to offers for him if the right deal comes along.
However, TNT is not under any pressure to trade Williams, as he is one of the best guards in the league and a critical part of their success. The team’s management is likely weighing their options carefully and will only make a move if it significantly improves their chances of winning the championship.
The PBA Trade Market Heats Up
As the Commissioner’s Cup draws nearer, the PBA trade market is expected to heat up even more, with teams like Ginebra, SMB, and TNT looking to make moves that will give them an edge in the upcoming tournament. With Ginebra potentially adding a big man like Anthony Bennett, SMB strengthening their frontcourt, and TNT exploring the possibility of trading Mikey Williams, the league is shaping up for what could be an exciting and competitive season.
For fans of the PBA, the next few weeks will be critical in determining how these teams will shape up for the remainder of the season. Stay tuned for more updates as the trades and signings unfold, and the drama in the PBA off-season continues to unfold.
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