JONATHON Simmons remain committed to playing for NLEX, but whether he stays with the team for the rest of the PBA Governors' Cup remains in the balance.
The former NBA player couldn’t say for certain how long he will be suiting up for the Road Warriors amid talks that he’s committed only to playing a certain number of games for the franchise before returning to the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) where a lucrative contract is reportedly awaiting him.
READ: Simmons, Alas spark NLEX romp over Blackwater
Simmons said he’s leaving the negotiations to NLEX management and his representative.
“I leave all those stuff to management. I just want to play basketball, but I’m glad it all worked out so I can play and lead this team to the win,” he said.
The NLEX import scored 20 of his 32 points in the second half for the Road Warriors, who needed a late run to leave Blackwater behind in a 124-102 win at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday night.
Simmons also had nine rebounds and seven assists just hours after getting clearance from his former Chinese team Shanxi Loongs that paved the way for him to finally play for the Road Warriors.
Asked if he’ll still stay with NLEX, the import responded in the affirmative.
“Yes, I’ll be here,” Simons said.
But if it’s for the short or long haul, the 33-year-old American can’t say for sure.
“We’ll see,” Simmons said. “We’ll see what happens.”
Despite the initial hitch created by the uncertainty over Simmons' availability, NLEX coach Frankie Lim still lauded his import.
“One thing I like about Simmons is, honest siya sa akin. Diretso siya sa akin. I really appreciate that,” said the NLEX coach.