MANILA, Philippines – Tim Cone was not bitter at all in losing the Greg Slaughter sweepstakes. In fact, Cone was happy that the San Mig Coffee Mixers landed former San Sebastian’s star big man Ian Sangalang.
“If we have to play a game tomorrow, Ian can step right in and be a contributor. He’s already ready for the PBA. He doesn’t need development. He’s already skilled and knows the game,†Cone spoke highly of the second overall pick. “Rarely do you get a rookie who’s ready to play right away.â€
Sangalang is confident that he won’t disappoint Cone.
“Nilu-look forward ko na alam ko na marami akong matutunan sa team na ito at marami akong mai-improve sa sarili ko. Alam ko na kaya ko ang mga ipapagawa sa akin,†Sangalang told Philstar.com.
The former Stag, who was a member of the Pinatubo Trio that also featured last season’s PBA Rookie of the Year Calvin Abueva and Ronald Pascual at San Sebastian, could not hide his excitement to join the recently crowned Governors’ Cup champions.
“Sobrang natutuwa ako. Lahat gustong maglaro dito sa PBA pero iba talaga kapag napunta ka sa isang magandang team lalo na may magagaling na coaching staff at mga players kaya sobrang blessed ako,†Sangalang added.
The 6-7 rookie will be joining 6-9 Yancy de Ocampo and 6-8 Rafi Reavis and fellow rookie Justin Chua as the Mixers’ anchors in the middle.