Freeman back as Patriots import

MANILA, Philippines - Gabe Freeman will suit up again for the Philippine Patriots when the defending champions take on the Singapore Slingers next week in the AirAsia ASEAN Basketball League Season 2 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

Patriots team manager Erick Arejola said Freeman will arrive in time for their game against the Slingers on Dec. 18 where the Patriots will try to come up with a follow up to their 73-71 squeaker over the Kuala Lumpur Dragons last Thursday.

The win snapped the Patriots’ three-game skid and with Freeman back, they hope to make it past the Slingers and keep their title-retention bid going.

The 6-foot-5 Freeman, who played for San Miguel Beer in the PBA the past two seasons, will replace Hashiem Wright, who was slowed down by a hamstring injury.

Wright fired 21 points against the Dragons but has struggled defensively.

“He’s a nice fellow but we need to tighten up our defensive alignment that’s why we’re bringing back Gabe,” said Arejola.

Freeman is expected to complement with Steve Thomas who debuted with 10 points and 15 rebounds.

“I’m hopeful that he will be more productive in our next games. He arrived only last Tuesday, so he’s still adjusting,” said coach Louie Alas.