Manila, Philippines – Globalport team manager BJ Manalo believes they have found the missing links in their effort not only to improve their performance in the coming conference but also to achieve their goal this season.
Though they lost an explosive guard in Sol Mercado, both Manalo and coach Pido Jarencio are convinced that 10-year pro Alex Cabagnot is the perfect guy for a relatively young squad that they have now.
Cabagnot was acquired from Petron Blaze in a one-on-one trade with Mercado the other day.
“He’s the perfect leader Globalport needs at this point,” said Manalo. “He is also the mentor we were looking for to guide our rookies RR (Garcia) and Terrence (Romeo).
“In getting Alex, we had to sacrifice Sol who we wish for the best,” added Manalo.
Being part of the coaching staff of Petron Blaze (now San Miguel Beer) before, Jarencio sees no problem dealing with Cabagnot whom he described as very efficient and excellent leader inside the court.
Cabagnot, according to Manalo, is also cut out to Jarencio’s run and gun style of offense because of his speed and creativity.
He also also has a feathery touch from the 3-point shooting area. Despite coming off an injury, he normed 11 points, 6 asssists and two steals in the last conference.
Bonbon Custodio, the veteran guard out of University of the East, is another welcome addition to Globalport. He was taken from Air21 in exchange of Jonas Villanueva.
Jarencio has had a great interest in Custodio even before the 6-foot guard made a name in the UAAP, knowing the flamboyant guard has the moves and courage to make things happen.
“With Alex, Bonbon, RR and Terrence, rest assure that this team will run and run in our bid fulfill our goal” said Manalo.
With Jarencio now calling the shots plus the acquisition of Cabagnot and Custodio, Manalo is hoping the team will advance to the Final Four of the coming conference.
“That’s our goal this season and hopefully we can realize our dream,” added Manalo.