MANILA, Philippines — Alaska and disgruntled star Vic Manuel finally found a way to end their month-long impasse with the Aces striking a trade deal with Phoenix Super LPG.
The Aces sent Manuel to the Fuel Masters in exchange for guard Brian Heruela in an agreement that also involved draft picks.
Alaska likewise received Phoenix’ rights to the No. 6 and No. 16 picks in the coming Rookie Draft as well as the Fuel Masters’ first-round pick for Season 47 in the package approved by the PBA yesterday. In addition to “The Muscleman,” Phoenix acquired the Aces’ seventh and 19th picks in the talent-rich draft on March 14.
Finally, Manuel got his wish to be traded, and the Aces were happy with what they got.
“Trading Vic was very challenging these past six weeks. There were several offers from different teams that either fell off the table or we simply didn’t want to accept,” Alaska coach Jeff Cariaso told The STAR.
“Finally we’ve come to a deal with Phoenix that will give us a better opportunity to draft marquee talents in both rounds plus an extra first-round pick next year.”
With the issue over and done with, Alaska looks ahead with a fully-committed crew.
“I truly believe in the guys we have and trust that they will step up, taking full advantage of the opportunities,” said Cariaso, who’s equally excited with the free agents and rookies coming on board. “Never will there be a question of commitment from these guys and I look forward to the daily grind with them.”
Phoenix welcomed Manuel barely a week after shipping Calvin Abueva to Magnolia for Chris Banchero.
“We just want to be able to compete with the big teams,” team manager Paolo Bugia said of their recent personnel movements.
“This trade really aligns with management’s goal to put up a contending team each conference. Vic is a big pickup for us. With his threat in the post, it should open up our three’s for our shooters,” he added.