ABL-bound SMC eyes Cebu big man, free agents

MANILA, Philippines - The San Miguel Beer Philippine team in the Asean Basketball League (ABL) will likely be built around Cebuano behemoth Junmar Fajardo as it makes its debut in the fledgling league early next year.

SMC is said to be pursuing Fajardo since the player has reportedly made a commitment to stay with University of Cebu up to December, thus forgoing plans to join the coming PBA Draft.

The 6-foot-10 player could be available for the ABL which begins its third season in January or February.

Coach Bobby Parks also eyes PBA free agents and reserves for the team, which starts holding tryouts next month.

SMC sports director Robert Non said Junel Baculi and Oliver Bunyi could well be the coaches to assist Parks.

“I have talked to coach Junel about it but I have to meet him again for confirmation,” said Non.

There are reports that Harbour Centre is considering to enlist Baculi as replacement of coach Louie Alas.

Baculi is familiar with Asean basketball, having steered Harbour Centre Team Philippines to championship in the SEABA Champions Cup and in the finals of the SEA Games.

SMC has just made commitment with the ABL to play in the fledgling league at least for the next five years.

SMB-Phl will be the country’s second team in the ABL after the Harbour Centre team of Mikee Romero and Tonyboy Cojuangco.