Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 11) — Following a three-team deal with NorthPort, high-scoring guard Robert Bolick joins the NLEX crew after a short-lived stint in Japan while forward Don Trollano heads to the San Miguel squad.
The PBA Commissioner’s Office on Monday announced its approval of the three-team, multi-player trade involving NorthPort, NLEX and San Miguel.
NLEX earlier set its eyes on Bolick and Kent Salado, offering three players to Batang Pier in exchange –Trollano, big man Ben Adamos, guard Kris Rosales, and a PBA Season 49 Draft second-round pick acquired from Blackwater.
The NLEX deal paved the way for the Beermeen to work a trade with NorthPort to acquire Trollano in exchange for Allyn Bulanadi, Jeepy Faundo and SMB’s 51st Season second round pick.
The Road Warriors admittedly pursued Bolick to fill in Kevin Alas after he suffered another Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury on his left knee.
Bolick comes off an aborted stint for the Fukushima Firebonds in the Japan B.League after leaving NorthPort last season.
The guard reportedly requested to terminate his contract with the Firebonds due to his wife’s delicate pregnancy, prompting the former PBA All-Star to return home.
NLEX team governor Ronald Dulatre thanked Trollano, Adamos, and Rosales for their contributions to the Road Warriors.
“We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Don, Ben, and Kris for their dedication and hard work with the NLEX Road Warriors. Each of them has played a crucial role in our team’s journey, and we wish them continued success, both on and off the court,” he said.
“This proposed trade provides them with an excellent opportunity to showcase their talents with another team, and we genuinely appreciate their contributions to the NLEX Road Warriors,” he added.
Trollano joined NLEX after a trade with Blackwater in January 2022. Adamos came from Phoenix Super LPG through a trade in May. Rosales joined NLEX as a free agent in November 2021.
Their possible addition to the Batang Pier roster could bolster scoring options in addition to the crew manned by Joshua Munzon and reliable rookies Cade Flores, Fran Yu, and Brent Paraiso.
Even without Bolick in the league, NorthPort held out on its current roster and emerged as a big surprise, currently holding a 5-3 record behind the consistent play of Arvin Tolentino.
