Some teams have already chosen their foreign reinforcements.
Filipino basketball fans have a lot to look forward to in 2023. There's the FIBA World Cup, the ongoing NBA season, and of course, the Governors’ Cup for the PBA’s 47th season. Let’s focus on the last one.
The third conference of the PBA is undeniably spiced up by the imports limited to a 6-foot-6 height restriction. On that note, let’s have a quick rundown of the teams that have already named their reinforcements for the January tournament.
NLEX Road Warriors - Jonathon Simmons
If you follow the NBA, the name Jonathon Simmons should be familiar. He’s had a playoff appearance with the San Antonio Spurs and a 13.9 points-per-game season with the Orlando Magic. NLEX is banking on this NBA vet, who spent the past two seasons in China averaging 18.3 ppg, to lead them to their first ever PBA semifinals berth.
Magnolia Hotshots - Erik McCree
Once again, the Hotshots went the European route in terms of import selection with their signing of Erik McCree. This 29-year old swingman had brief stints in the G League and with the Utah Jazz, but it was in Europe where he really put the work in. Playing for multiple teams across the continent, he’ll definitely infuse a different style of play to Magnolia.
KJ McDaniels - Meralco Bolts
The Bolts are set to bring back KJ McDaniels for his second tour of duty with the team. He last saw action for Meralco as a replacement and produced quite well despite facing taller imports as he averaged 27.3 points, 10.8 boards and 3.1 assists in six games. Perhaps, the Bolts are expecting more from McDaniels now that he’s going to compete in an even playing field.
Michael Qualls - Rain or Shine Elasto Painters
Coach Yeng Guiao and his Elasto Painters have tapped the former NorthPort import to help their cause in the final conference of the season. Posting 32 points, 12.8 rebounds, 1.8 blocks and 2.2 steals in 11 games, Qualls was able to guide Batang Pier to a semis appearance in 2019. Who knows? The versatile Arkansas product might just do the same for the playoff-hungry Rain or Shine squad.
Shawn Glover - Blackwater Bossing
Glover is back with Blackwater. The last time he suited up for Bossing, he was stamping 34.8 points, 12.3 rebounds and 4 assists per contest. For sure, he and his teammates are bent on finishing far better than their 1-10 slate in last season’s Governors’ Cup.
Justin Brownlee - Barangay Ginebra
Okay, this one is NOT YET officially announced. But was there ever a doubt? Or do you think we're jumping the gun here?