Aguilar to suit up for national five

VICTORIAS, Negros Occidental, Philippines – Japeth Aguilar may join the RP team as early as June or before the Nationals compete in the SEABA championship in Medan, Indonesia as the US-based Filipino player finishes his studies at West Kentucky U by mid-May.

This was according to RP team coach Yeng Guiao who also said Powerade, the chief backer of the squad, is now preparing a financial package for Aquilar in his stint with the team.

“Powerade has agreed to prepare something for Japeth. He needs it because unlike the other players, he doesn’t have a contract with any PBA team. He doesn’t have anything, like house and car services, when he comes here,” said Guiao.

“They have a house in the province (Pampanga). Of course, he can’t stay there when he’s training with us,” Guiao added.

Apparently, Aguilar has made a commitment with Guiao even as he’s still being pursued by SBP executive director Noli Eala to join the SBP developmental pool under Serbian coach Rajko Toroman.

Another opportunity being looked at by Aguilar is an invitation to play in Europe, also according to Guiao.

“He’s being invited by a teammate to play in Europe. But he doesn’t have assurance on what awaits him there. Here, there’s the RP team then the PBA waiting for him,” said Guiao.

Guiao said Aguilar, a 6-foot-10 behemoth with US NCAA experience, is a potential top pick in the next PBA draft.

Meanwhile, PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios lauded the move of All-Star coaches Chot Reyes and Tim Cone to make a tough stand against RP team in the Motolite PBA All-Star three-game series to help them in their buildup for the coming world qualifier.

The All-Star Extravaganza, supported by PowerAde, Coca-Cola, Nike, Accel and Phoenix Fuels, actually got underway as early as Tuesday with the All-Star players and coaches holding outreach programs in this city and the nearby areas upon arrival from Manila.

“I’m happy with the reception and response of the people of this province. Our next stop is Panabo, Davao del Norte. But so far, it’s been very good,” said Barrios.