GENERAL SANTOS CITY – Don’t be shocked if two-time MVP Willie Miller ends up playing alongside Kia playing coach Manny Pacquiao.
While there is no deal yet in place for Miller to don the Kia jersey, the prospects of seeing Miller resurrect his once-flourishing career surfaced as Pacquiao was discussing basketball with Globalport’s Erick Arejola during a light moment while training on Wednesday.
“Ano record nyo?” Pacquiao barked at Arejola, who was standing near the ring apron taking pictures with his smartphone.
Globalport has a 3-3 win-loss card, while Kia has a 1-5 slate. Fellow newcomer Blackwater and Barako Bull share the cellar with identical 0-5s.
When Arejola told Pacquiao that the Batang Pier are struggling like Kia, the fighter expressed his excitement to take the hardcourt once again after making his debut last month.
But as they exchanged ideas on how to resuscitate their respective squads, one name – that of Miller – was mentioned and it caught the attention of Pacquiao, who paused a bit while shadowboxing.
Miller, now 37, was left unsigned after being dropped by Barako Bull just before the PBA Philippine Cup opened shop last month.
An 11-time All-Star and two-time Finals MVP, Miller has played in six PBA teams since being selected the first overall pick in 2001.
Although it wasn’t Arejola who suggested that Kia recruit the 5-11 Miller to beef up its lean roster, Pacquiao appeared receptive to the idea although he didn’t say a word.
It was Kia assistant team manager Joe Ramos who suggested that Kia take a chance on Miller, upbeat that the high-octane scoring guard still has what it takes to torch the nets.