In retrospect: Greg Slaughter’s break from the PBA

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

I repeat, Greg “Gregzilla” Slaughter of the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel just took a break from the PBA and will not play.

Many are still in disbelief because of Slaughter’s stellar career with Ginebra, clinching four championships with the squad and became one of the most imposing duos underneath with Japeth Aguilar.

A recent social media post by Slaughter stunned most in the PBA community, but some of them also saw it coming.

The post contained Slaughter’s outpouring sentiments toward his plans in taking a break from the PBA and stated that he will focus more on his personal growth in all aspects.

But is it really the reason behind the decision?

Before Slaughter’s ‘hiatus’, there were reports of Slaughter being shipped to Northport in exchange for Christian Standhardinger. Also included in the package was Ginebra’s newest draft pick, Jerrick Balanza of the Letran Knights whose prolific scoring earned his draft stock to rise just before the PBA draft.

To connect the dots, reports surfaced showing Al Francis Chua, Ginebra’s team manager, was seen in a blue shirt printed with Letran’s name together with Northport’s head coach, Pido Jarencio.

Well, Bonnie Tan, Letran’s head coach, is currently Northport’s team manager.

With the trade package involving the two teams and the players, it was no doubt the trio had something on their mind just right after the NCAA championship.

What’s worse is that sources have confirmed that the deal was already done and players are ready to be shipped anytime.

Upon hearing the deal, sources have confirmed that Slaughter demanded a no-trade clause and a significant increase in his new contract.

However, his wish was not granted and days after, announced through his Instagram account his temporary farewell from the big league.

Will Ginebra make a move?

How can Slaughter’s absence affect Ginebra’s style of play? Especially that they are looking to stop the reign of the San Miguel Beermen without their 5-time MVP, June Mar Fajardo.