SEASON 8 of the MPBL is just around the corner. But Forthsky Padrigao, who could be a key player in any team's rotation, might miss the action which begins on April 10 in Caloocan City and Laguna province.
But SPIN.ph learned from sources that reigning champions Abra Solid North Weavers have expressed interest in tapping the 6-foot guard out of Ateneo and University of Santo Tomas.
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The Weavers lost key players in the MPBL offseason, among them, Geo Chiu, Simon Camacho, and guards Jolo Mendoza, CJ Austria, and Jason Brickman, adjudged as Finals MVP when Abra won the championship last season.
With them gone, Padrigao looms as a perfect catch, especially in the role of main man at the point for the Weavers.
“Gusto siyang kunin ng Abra,” said a source.
Unfortunately, it is unlikely that this will happen.
Dave Ildefonso – the MPBL Season 7 MVP – will be back to lead Abra’s charge again. The guy reportedy has a big say on who he wants to play with and who the team should sign.
And as everybody knows, the Ildefonsos have a long-standing issue with Padrigao from way back.
“Alam mo na yun,” said the source.
We’ll just leave it at that. - Gerry Ramos
Ever Bilena interest in joining PVL?
EVER Bilena Cosmetics, Inc. could be the latest company to look into the PVL.
SPIN.ph learned that the cosmetics giant has begun making initial inquiries on applying for membership, with reports saying that the inquiry included a very vital area: the cost of entering the league.
While nothing is firm at this stage, early feelers indicate a potential interest from Ever Bilena in expanding its sports footprint beyond basketball.
The timing is also notable following the recent exits of Chery Tiggo and Petro Gazz, with at least one more PVL team reportedly contemplating disbanding.
The company owned by Dioceldo Sy is no stranger to the pro sports. It has a team - Blackwater Bossing - which joined the PBA as one of two expansion ballclubs in 2014. Notably, the team has not won a championship or been to the finals.
For now, there are no indications of a formal application, but the company’s reported inquiries come at a time when the league, one of the most popular in the country, is facing some challenges that may affect its future stabiity. - John Mark Garcia
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