TNT coach Chot Reyes confirmed Jio Jalalon is trying out with the ball club, explaining why the veteran point guard was spotted on social media in one of their practices.
READ: Why Jio Jalalon is at TNT practice and not at NorthPort's tuneup
Reyes said nothing is set in stone about Jalalon being part of the Tropang 5G roster, as proven by the latter being excluded from the 15-man roster the team has submitted to the league.
Jalalon was also not present during the PBA Season 50 Media Day where players are mandated to take part in photo shoots and available for media interviews.
Reyes said they were told that Jalalon’s contract expired at the end of August, which meant he was free to attend TNT’s training.
“He is trying out. Nagta-tryout siya,” said Reyes during Thursday’s Media Day in Quezon City. “We confirm that his current contact is expired and sabi namin, wala pa siyang team, he is welcome to try out.”
“Other than that, he is not in our lineup. He is not here (Media Day) because we don’t consider him part of our team yet.”
Jio, restricted or unrestricted?
Though his contract with NorthPort has expired, there remains to be uncertainty as to the status of Jalalon, as he is reportedly still one short of the 21-conference rule in order to become eligible to become an unrestricted free agent.
This means that Batang Pier appears to still hold the signing rights to Jalalon for one more conference, unless a trade is consummated with the Tropang 5G before the Philippine Cup.
Regardless, Reyes said the TNT hasn’t made a decision on whether it will actually include Jalalon on its roster for the all-Filipino.
“That remains to be seen,” said Reyes. “He has not yet completed our tryout. He came in just very recently. We have a lot of evaluating to do.”
With the 15-man roster already submitted, Reyes said the Tropang 5G must make room - if Jalalon passes the tryouts.
“We gave a 15-man line-up already. If he will make the team, we have to put someone (out). We are planning as if he is not going to be in our roster,” said Reyes.
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