A DEAL that could finally pave the way for Bol Bol, a former NBA player and son of 7-7 beanpole Manute Bol, to play in the PBA wearing the TNT Tropang 5G uniform could be signed in the next two days.
Sources told SPIN.ph that TNT management and Bol's camp are putting the finishing touches to a deal that could see the 7-3 Sudanese-American suit up in the coming Commissioner’s Cup, where there are no height restrictions for imports.
“Let’s just say na in the next two days, okay na 'yan. Magpipirmahan na 'yan,” said the source.
COLUMN: Will Bol Bol be TNT's import? Here's real score so far
SPIN.ph tried to contact TNT coach Chot Reyes since last Tuesday, but the multi-titled coach was very reserved with his response. Still, Reyes’ non-denial is seen as a sign that negotiations are proceeding smoothly.
“Naku, si Jolas (TNT team manager Jojo Lastimosa) ang in charge, better ask him,” was Reyes’ curt reply.
A SPIN.ph source, however, bared that it was Reyes who initiated the talks with the camp of Bol, especially since the former Gilas Pilipinas coach has close ties with the East West Private, a well-known talent agency in the US.
Bol, a 44th overall pick by the Miami Heat in the 2019 NBA Draft, played for the Denver Nuggets, Orlando Magic and the Phoenix Suns until 2024.
As interesting as his imminent arrival in the PBA is, Bol’s recent career seems to be wanting.
Since playing 36 games with the Suns in the 2024-25 season where he averaged 6.8 points and 2.9 rebounds at 12 minutes per game, the 2018 McDonald’s All American Boys’ Game veteran hasn’t been playing high-level basketball.
He was supposed to suit up for the Sudanese national team at the 2024 Paris Olympics but curiously backed out at the last minute due to undisclosed personal reasons.
'You can never be sure...'
No wonder Lastimosa warned that any reports about Bol's stint in the PBA is premature until he shows up at the airport.
“You can never be sure until he arrives,” said Lastimosa in a statement posted on the team's social media pages.
But if he does arrive, Bol, with his dexterity, quickness and outside touch, should make quite an impact for a TNT team that is coming off a six-game loss to rival San Miguel in the PBA Philippine Cup Finals.
The question remains: Will he show up?
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