MANILA, Philippines – Asi Taulava is on his way to the Air21 Express.
Barring any hitch, Taulava and back-up forward Mark Borboran will be shipped to Air21 for veteran guard Mike Cortez and center James Sena.
Taulava's contract with the Meralco Bolts has already expired before he transferred to the Asean Basketball League (ABL) but his PBA rights remained with the team.
No less than Meralco coach Ryan Gregorio confirmed the trade.
"It's confirmed," Gregorio told Philstar.com after the Bolts won, 82-76, against defending Governors' Cup champion Rain or Shine Elasto Painters.
"The papers are already with the Commissioner (Chito Salud)," Gregorio added.
Taulava, who wished to end his career at Ginebra, was already invited to practice with the Express even if the trade is still waiting for approval.
Salud will decide on the trade over the weekend. The league commissioner has the power to veto or revise a trade proposal if deemed necessary.
If the deal is approved, Gregorio sees no problem with a loaded back court that will have Cortez, Chris Ross and Chris Timberlake.
"Timberlake is doing a good job starting for us. I will slowly insert Mike (Cortez)," Gregorio said.
Sena, meanwhile, is a young big man who can grow with rookie Cliff Hodge especially with Reynel Hugnatan nursing a sprained ankle injury.
Taulava will give the much needed post presence that Air21 sorely lacks.