Air21 set to grab Al-Hussaini, Baclao; Express release Kramer for Arellano
Friday, August 20, 2010
JOSEF T. RAMOS
 WITH a week left before the 2010 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) rookie draft this month takes place, Air21 which owns four first round picks has expressed interest to tap the best talents among the 66 aspiring rookies.
Air2 team manager Allan Gregorio said he and team governor Johann Ramos along with head coach Yeng Guiao and other coaching staffs are all set to select 6-foot-7 center Rabeh Al-Hussaini and defensive specialist Nonoy Baclao.
“We’re going to make Rabeh and Nonoy as our first and second pick in August 29,” said Gregorio via a text message, referring to Express’ first and second overall top pick draft rights which they obtained from previous trade transactions.
To make things more comfortable for Al-Hussaini’s entry to Express’ roster, Air21 shipped 6-foot-5 forward Doug Kramer to Rain or Shine in exchange of versatile guard Marcy Arellano, a former University of the East hotshot.
Al-Hussaini and Baclao were teammates during Ateneo’s back-to-back championship in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) men’s basketball in 2008 and 2009 seasons.
‘Dominating force’
Al-Hussaini, a half-brother of Air21’s behemoth Carlo Sharma, was a dominating force for the Blue Eagles averaging almost 18 points and 12 rebounds with three blocks during his stay in the UAAP.
“It’s really a great pleasure to play alongside my brother. I’m really excited and I can’t wait for it,” said Sharma, a former La Salle player.
The 6-foot-4 Baclao, on the other hand, finished with almost 10 points and 12 rebounds with four or five blocks per game during his UAAP days.
Even Ateneo mentor Norman Black admits that Baclao’s defense is so awesome.
“Al-Hussaini is definitely our choice for No.1, and we’re also seriously considering Baclao because he’s a defensive player and sometimes willing to become a role player,” said Guiao. “He’s also a tough frontliner. His qualities fit our need.”
Guiao said they are also considering good offers in exchange of their last two draft rights in exchange of quality players. “I believe the owner of the fourth overall pick can still get a quality player.”
‘Talented’
After picking first and second, new PBA member Meralco (formerly Sta. Lucia Realty) will pick third, followed again by the Express, who also consider Elmer Espiritu and Josh Vanlangdingham are the other talented players availabe.
Rain or Shine will pick No. 5, while the 6th up to the 10th pick are still under review, but most likely Air21’s fourth pick will be at 8th or ninth.
Other incoming rookies are NCAA MVP John Wilson, Ford Arao, Jai Reyes, Arellano’s Gio Ciriacruz, Jimbo Aquino, Marvin Hayes, Khazim Mirza, Rey Guevarra and RJ Jazul.
They will participate in the rookie camp from August 20 to 26. |
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