GLOBALPORT on Monday reiterated its stand that it will keep controversial big man Japeth Aguilar as part of the team’s nucleus starting in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
Echoing the stand made by team owner Mikee Romero, Globalport head of basketball operations Erick Arejola stressed the 6-foot-9 back-up center of Western Kentucky University is no longer on the trading block amid reports that the San Miguel organization is weighing a move for Aguilar.
“The whole organization is very happy and excited to see Japeth play for Globalport this Friday,” said Arejola, who was the one who sealed the Aguilar deal with Talk `N Text in exchange for Rabeh Al-Hussaini.
The Batang Pier play the Petron Boosters in the first game of the import-laden conference that starts this Friday at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
“We really lacked a big man, and coach Junel (Baculi) is confident that Japeth can fill the hole in the middle,” Arejola added.
The amiable team official also admitted being aware of the meeting among San Miguel Corporation bigwigs, in which plans on a fresh bid for the 26-year-old big man were reportedly discussed.
“Nakita namin sa story niyo kahapon (sa Spin.ph) na nag-meeting nga sila (SMC),” said Arejola, but admitted they have yet to get any feelers from the San Miguel group on new transactions.
Aguilar, a native of Lubao Pampanga, is expected to arrive in the country Monday night and possibly, join Globalport’s team practice on Tuesday morning.
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