Vic Manuel eyes Phoenix, SMB, or NLEX

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

 

After a shaky situation with the Alaska Aces, superstar forward Vic Manuel disclosed that he prefers to get traded to the Phoenix Super LPG Fuelmasters, the San Miguel Beermen, or the NLEX Road Warriors.

Manuel recently announced that he demanded a trade and wants to be out of Alaska citing that they did not bother to reach out to him after the PBA bubble regarding his contract.

Despite head coach Jeff Cariaso talking to him right after hearing Manuel’s statement, the veteran swingman was firm with his decision of exiting the Aces.

Manuel then laid out three teams that he wanted to get traded to and among the teams are Phoenix, SMB, and NLEX.

No doubt he wanted Phoenix because he wants to have a reunion with old pal and Alaska frontcourt duo Calvin Abueva.

“Siyempre nandiyan din ang kaibigan ko na si Calvin. Iba kung maging ka-close mo ‘yan,” Manuel said during an interview on Sports All-In.

On the other hand, when asked why he wants to play for San Miguel, Manuel stressed that he has a lot of respect for Arwind Santos, his idol growing up.

Also, his great admiration for the team when he was still a kid was a big factor, adding that it would be an honor if he can suit up for the Beermen.

Last but not the least, Manuel shared how he wished to be guided by one of the greatest coaches in Philippine basketball, coach Yeng Guiao, the reason why he is open to joining NLEX also.

“Noong nagsimula ako, gusto kong nang lumipat sa Rain or Shine talaga dahil kay Coach Yeng. Kasi parang pagdating ko sa PBA, yung talagang laro ko hindi ko pa nailalabas o napapakita,” bared Manuel.

However, those plans might be put on hold as the Alaska camp is doing everything they can to keep their star forward and are hoping that he ultimately changes his mind.