CHICAGO -- Like a rare nuclear fallout survivor, Zavier Lucero was one of the few bright lights in yet another Magnolia campaign that ended in the disappointment of an empty title chase.
When it came to producing whatever the Hotshots needed on both ends of the floor, the Fil-Am from Vallejo, California was constant as death and taxes.
In 13 Philippine Cup games, the former UP Fighting Maroon averaged 18.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1,4 blocks while shooting 41.3 percent from 3 (19-of-46) and 52 percent from the field overall (88-of-169).
A Best Player of the Conference contender, Lucero has become a household name among PBA fans, many of whom refer to him as Mr. Consistency.
Apparently, the attention Zavier is getting extends beyond the borders of the PBA.
Per a China-based, FIBA certified agent who called me on the phone two days ago, several teams in the Taiwan Professional Basketball League (TPBL), which is eyeing to adopt the Asian quota system, are targeting the services of the versatile 6-foot-6 forward.
THE P LEAGUE.
Formed in July of 2024 following the dissolution of the T1 League is home to Jeremy Lin, the face of the P League who makes a reported $3 million a year as the resident star of the New Taipei Kings.
Lucero's pay won't breach millions of dollars but he'll command a salary of up to $12,000 a month plus perks and bonuses and nifty accommodations, the agent said.
Obviously, like the good ones often are, Lucero is taken. There is, however, hope for his most ardent suitors as Lucero's contract is set to expire this September.
Does this mean, Zavier will be dining more dimsum in the coming months?
Unlikely.
Magnolia has found its star of the future and the Hotshots would be foolish not to do everything in its power to keep him. Sadly, though, foolish decisions are not exactly beyond that team's realm.
That being said, it would be malpractice on the part of Lucero's reps if they wouldn't at least explore options beyond Magnolia.
By all indications, Zav is happy at Magnolia and is eager to win a chip that has eluded the Hotshots a lifetime ago in 2018.
While he's a very likely keeper in the PBA, there has to be joy and elation in the recognition that his talents have gotten from overseas.
NOT SO FOND FAREWELL.
My initial initial reaction after hearing the disbandbandment of Terrafirma was to mutter the words "good riddance."
The executives who ran that sorry franchise should each get a restraining order from ever working for a professional team.
But I mourn the utility, medical and other ancillary staff members who lost their jobs as a result of this disbandment.
Hopefully, they all find a happy landing spot.
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