Trade shocker: Phoenix ships Abueva to Magnolia for Banchero & draft picks

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

 

Calvin “The Beast” Abueva and the Phoenix Super LPG Fuelmasters were right in the middle of rebuilding their relationship following an impressive PBA Philippine Cup semifinals finish during the bubble edition – but things took a different turn.

Recent news confirmed that Phoenix decided to trade Abueva to the Magnolia Hotshots in exchange for point guard Chris Banchero and a couple of 2021 draft picks.

Magnolia will be receiving Abueva and Phoenix’s 10th overall draft pick while Phoenix will be adding Banchero to their lineup together with Magnolia’s sixth and 18th picks.

“It was not an easy decision to let go of a player like Calvin, considering he has been through thick and thin with Phoenix. Yet at the same time, we are excited to acquire a first-round pick from a very deep draft, and together with Chris Banchero, who is a superstar in his own right, the team has a great opportunity to grow in the years to come,” said Phoenix in a statement.

After sixteen months of basketball inactivity due to his PBA suspension, Abueva began a new chapter in his career after marking his return into the league wearing the Phoenix uniform.

Abueva performed admirably during the PBA bubble, resulting in him being nominated for the Best Player of the Conference and Sportsmanship award.

“We thank Calvin for everything he has done for us, and we wish him all the best in his new journey,” added the Phoenix management.