by Jonas Terrado
Meralco finally landed a legitimate big man it has desperately needed for years yesterday when it acquired Raymond Almazan from Rain or Shine in exchange for two first round draft picks.
The PBA’s trade committee approved the deal which will send the Bolts’ first round selections this year and in 2021 while giving the 6-foot-8 Almazan a fresh start after his Elasto Painters stint ended on a sour note.
Both teams had actually came to terms last Friday but waited four days before the league reviewed the proposal.
Coach Norman Black was elated upon learning of the positive response shortly after Meralco beat Alaska, 87-80, in a tune-up match at the Hoops Gym in Mandaluyong.
“We’ve gone quite a few years without a big man who can man the paint, particularly in the All-Filipino conference,” Black said, noting his team’s absence in the Philippine Cup playoffs for the past four seasons.
“Almazan is one of the best bigs in the country and he gives us some size. Hopefully he can come in and help us inside the paint because he’s a good shot blocker, he’s a good rebounder and he can score around the basket.
“We’re giving up a premium for him, obviously, but we want to win now and we want to get a guy who can help us win now,” added Black.
Almazan is expected to show up in Meralco’s practice on Thursday, though his status for Sunday’s Commissioner’s Cup opener against Blackwater will depend on whether his ankle has fully healed.
