Helterbrand extends pact with Kings

MANILA, Philippines - Ginebra guard Jayjay Helterbrand, the 2009 MVP awardee, has decided to keep playing at least up to the end of the 2011-12 PBA season.

Helterbrand, the second oldest Ginebra player at 35, is extending his contract with the Kings until the end of the season then take time to assess his situation again.

During the off-season, the veteran Fil-Am playmaker settled only for a one-conference pact as he’s already mulling retirement.

“We’ve spoken with Jayjay and he informed us he’s playing up to the end of the season then reassess things,” Ginebra coach Jong Uichico told The STAR.

Helterbrand is already thinking on calling it quits while beset by an assortment of injuries as of late. He’s also looking forward to have quality time with his daughter in the United States.

“Lumalaki daw yun’ anak niya na malayo siya (His daughter is growing old with him away),” said Robert Non, the Ginebra alternate representative to the PBA board.

Helterbrand saw action in 11 of their 16 games in the Philippine Cup, averaging 8.9 points, 3.4 assists, 2.1 rebounds and 1.0 steal.

With a 41-percent norm from the three-point area, he’s certainly still a big threat especially when healthy.

The past two seasons was a long trying moment for Helterbrand due to a nagging injury. In 2009, he was able to play only 29 games and was limited to career-low norms of 5.4 points, 2.7 assists and 2.2 rebounds.

Currently on a break, the Ginebra coaching staff will meet soon to discuss their choice as import for the coming Commissioner’s Cup.

“We’ll first decide whether we go for a versatile all-around player or a seven-footer that will man the paint,” said Uichico.

If they go for a seven-footer, Chris Alexander will be a top option.

“Coach Allan Caidic is the one corresponding with him. He’s available to play,” said Uichico.

The Kings had their last PBA championship in the 2008 Fiesta Conference with the 7-foot-1 Alexander as their import.

Several other teams are looking to tap in Alexander but Ginebra has the “rights of first refusal” on the player.