NLEX still contemplating Asi Taulava’s future

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

 

One of the most celebrated big men in the PBA is still yet to receive a formal contract to play for another season.

Asi Taulava of the NLEX Road Warriors previously shared his willingness to play in whatever role the team asks of him.

“Everything depends on management. I’m happy just being on the team and doing whatever they ask me to do,” said the 6-foot-9 PBA legend.

However, there won’t be much playing to go around as NLEX currently has a logjam of players in the frontcourt, leading to questions on whether Taulava can make the cut and play for another PBA season.

Coach Yeng Guiao and the NLEX management already signed 6-foot-9 Maurice Shaw from Blackwater, 6-foot-6 JR Quiñahan, 6-foot-6 Michael Miranda, and 6-foot-6 Raul Soyud.

“Although we already talked to Asi, he is saying that he is going to be there just in case magpalit kami ng isip or kailanganin namin ng isang big body. He is going to be ready,” said coach Guiao.

The NLEX management said that Asi is still practicing with the team and in fact has not skipped one session, showing his eagerness to play for the team.

“We already talked to him with regards to a new role waiting for him. But he is just getting ready. Parang ayaw pa niya mag-retire. We’ll see,” added Guiao.