BLACKWATER may have lost a reliable offensive player, but at the same time, gained a two-way player in return.
That’s how Bossing coach Jeff Cariaso saw the trade consummated between his team and Converge that saw the FiberXers’ acquiring Rey Suerte in exchange for BJ Andrade.
The deal was approved by the league on Tuesday.
Cariaso said he sees Andrade, the 28-year-old former team captain of Ateneo’s last UAAP men’s basketball champion team, making an immediate impact with Blackwater once it begins its campaign in the PBA Philippine Cup.
“What stands out about him is his ability to play both ends of the court. He’s exactly the kind of player we value,” said Cariaso, looking on the benefit Blackwater earned by acquiring the services of Andrade.
“Given his strong basketball background, I’m confident he’ll be a great addition to the team,” added the Blackwater coach, obviously referring to the basketball genes running in Andrade, who is the nephew of PBA great and Converge deputy coach Danny Ildefonso and cousin to Shawn and Dave Ildefonso.
Andrade's arrival gave Blackwater a younger core of players that also includes No. 2 overall picks Sedric Barefield and Christian David, James Kwekuteye, RK Ilagan, Jaydee Tungcab, Kib Montalbo, DJ Mitchell, Richard Escoto, Clifford Jopia, Tyrus Hill, and Miguel Corteza.
Only Jayvee Casio, Jewel Ponferada, Justin Chua, and Mike Ayonayon are in their 30s.
That doesn’t mean Suerte wasn’t appreciated in his almost three-year stay with the Bossing franchise – most of which was spent under Cariaso.
The veteran coach also sees the 30-year-old gunner spreading his wings at Converge.
“I’m sure this change will be a great opportunity for his career,” said Cariaso of Suerte, who is still in the first of a two-year contract he previously signed with the Bossing.
“I hope it brings him success,” he added. “I wish Rey and his family all the best as he starts this new chapter with a a new team.”
Andrade has yet attended Blackwater’s practice, but Cariaso expects the 6-foot guard to report for practice by Thursday after the two talked to each other after the trade was finally approved.
“We’re excited to have him on board and look forward to working with him,” added the Bossing coach.
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