Looks like the Phoenix Fuel Masters are looking to up their game for the upcoming 2019 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) season as they make edits in their lineup.
One of the team’s biggest surprises was releasing sophomore guard Gelo Alolino, who averaged 6.0 points with a 44% shooting range beyond the arc, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game last season, which he could not complete due to an injury in his right ankle. Alolino, who is a graduate from the National University (NU) and was also chosen second overall in his draft class, is now a free agent and is looking to be picked up by the Blackwater Elite.
In the meantime, the Elite participated in a one-on-one trade themselves with the Fuel Masters involving John Pinto in exchange for Joseph Eribou. During the most recent Governor’s Cup, Pinto proved to be improving in his fifth year averaging 11.64 points, 6.27 assists, and 3.91 rebounds per game. Meanwhile, big man Eriobu from Mapua averaged 5.5 points and 1.0 rebounds in the four games he played for the Fuel Masters’ run in the Governor’s Cup, but his height was strongly desired by Blackwater head coach Leo Isaac.
Pinto is excited to join his new team, sharing, “I know it will be a big adjustment, but I’m excited for the new environment and a new journey in my career. Hopefully, I can contribute on playing defense and create plays.”
When it comes to more updates before the January 19 opening of the newest season, Northport veteran Gabby Espinas was also released by his former team, now having the opportunity to spend his 13th year in the PBA for any other team. The Alaska Aces let go of Marion Magat, Ronald Pascual, and Karl Dehasa, but also signed rookies MJ Ayaay and Gboy Babilonia. Carlo Lastimosa and Dylan Ababou have also been released by their team Columbian Dyip.